Hesperochiron

Description

Hesperochiron is a genus of flowering plants in the family Melastomataceae. It is native to the western United States and is commonly known as desert rockcress. The name Hesperochiron comes from the Greek words hesperos, meaning “western,” and cheiron, meaning “hand,” referring to the western location of this plant’s distribution.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Hesperochiron has a rosette of basal leaves that are green in color and have a waxy coating to reduce water loss. The leaves have a unique shape, with a basal blade and a petiole that is divided into three to five lobes. The plant produces a tall, slender stalk that can reach up to 2 feet tall, with small pink or purple flowers that bloom in the spring. The flowers have four petals and are arranged in a loose cluster at the top of the stalk.

Care Guide

Water

Hesperochiron prefers well-drained soil and does not require much water. During the growing season, water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but be careful not to overwater.

Fertilization

Hesperochiron does not require fertilization, but you can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.

Soil

Hesperochiron prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. A mix of sand and loam is ideal.

Sunlight

Hesperochiron prefers full sun to partial shade. In hotter climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.

Hardiness Zones

Hesperochiron is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Hesperochiron is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained.

Habitat

Hesperochiron is native to the western United States, where it grows in rocky, desert habitats. It can be found in California, Nevada, and Arizona.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Hesperochiron tolerate drought?

A: Yes, Hesperochiron is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.

Q: Is Hesperochiron toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Hesperochiron is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from plants to avoid any potential harm.

Q: Does Hesperochiron require pruning?

A: Hesperochiron does not require pruning, but you can remove the spent flower stalks to promote new growth.

Q: Is Hesperochiron an annual or perennial plant?

A: Hesperochiron is a perennial plant.

Related Plants

• Calycogonium
• Microlicia
• Miconia
• Tibouchina

References

• “Hesperochiron.” The Jepson Herbarium, University of California, Berkeley, 2021, https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=87212. Accessed 8 October 2021.
• “Hesperochiron.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283784. Accessed 8 October 2021.
• “Hesperochiron.” World Flora Online, 2021, www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-7000000028. Accessed 8 October 2021.