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Description
Hesperochiron Pumilus, commonly known as Dwarf Hesperochiron, is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the western United States, especially California, and grows up to a height of six inches. This plant has a long blooming season, from April to July, and produces small blue flowers that are about 0.5 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Angiospermae |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Hesperochiron |
Appearance
The Dwarf Hesperochiron has a small clumping growth habit, and its leaves are hairy and lance-shaped, about 1 inch long. The flowers are a deep blue color, with five petals that are fused at the base, forming a funnel shape. The plant blooms for several weeks in the spring and summer and is a popular choice for rock gardens, borders, and containers.
Care Guide
Water: Hesperochiron Pumilus prefers well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: Dwarf Hesperochiron requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.
Hardiness Zones: This plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hesperochiron Pumilus is generally free from serious pest and disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-draining. Aphids and spider mites can also occasionally infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Dwarf Hesperochiron is native to the western United States, where it grows in rocky or sandy soils in open woodlands, meadows, and grasslands. It is adapted to a variety of soil types and can withstand periods of drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hesperochiron Pumilus tolerate frost?
A: Yes, this plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate frost.
Q: How often should I water Dwarf Hesperochiron?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Q: Can I grow Hesperochiron Pumilus in a container?
A: Yes, Dwarf Hesperochiron can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How do I propagate Hesperochiron Pumilus?
A: This plant can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Hesperochiron californicus
- Hesperochiron pinnatifidus
- Hesperochiron serratifolius
References
- “Hesperochiron pumilus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, 2021, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HEPU2. Accessed 14 June 2021.
- “Hesperochiron pumilus (Dwarf Hesperochiron).” Gardenia, 2021, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/hesperochiron-pumilus-dwarf-hesperochiron. Accessed 14 June 2021.
- “Hesperochiron pumilus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281363. Accessed 14 June 2021.
