Contents
Description
Holocarpha Virgata, commonly known as Holocarpha, is a native Californian plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is a perennial shrub that grows up to 3 feet high and 4 feet wide. It is known for its beautiful silvery-gray foliage and its clusters of small white flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Holocarpha |
Appearance
Holocarpha has long, narrow leaves that are covered in a fine layer of white hairs, giving them a silvery appearance. Its flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters at the tips of the branches. The plant produces a lot of seeds, which are small and dark brown.
Care Guide
Holocarpha grows well in well-drained soil and doesn’t require a lot of watering. It is also tolerant of poor soil conditions and can grow in rocky or sandy soils. It prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade. Holocarpha is hardy to USDA zones 8-11. Fertilization is not necessary, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a year to encourage growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Holocarpha is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Holocarpha is native to California and can be found in the coastal areas and foothills of the state. It grows in dry, sunny locations, such as rocky slopes, open woodlands, and chaparral.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Holocarpha a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Holocarpha is drought-tolerant and doesn’t require a lot of watering.
Q: Can Holocarpha be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Holocarpha can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: When is the best time to prune Holocarpha?
A: The best time to prune Holocarpha is in the winter when it is dormant.
Q: Does Holocarpha attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Holocarpha’s flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Holocarpha macradenia
- Holocarpha obconica
- Holocarpha heermannii
References
- “Holocarpha Virgata.” Las Pilitas Nursery. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/holocarpha-virgata (accessed September 15, 2021).
- “Holocarpha Virgata.” California Native Plant Society. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/profiles/holocarpha-virgata (accessed September 15, 2021).
- “Holocarpha Virgata.” Calflora. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=4142 (accessed September 15, 2021).
