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Description
Hosackia Oblongifolia, commonly known as the Cream Cups, is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and produces stunning yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. It is a popular ornamental plant that is commonly grown in gardens and also serves as a food source for several species of butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Hosackia |
Appearance
Hosackia Oblongifolia is a small, bushy plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a deep taproot system that allows it to thrive in dry, arid environments. The leaves are oblong, gray-green in color, and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are a vibrant yellow color and are cup-shaped, giving the plant its common name, Cream Cups. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and bloom in clusters at the top of the stems.
Care Guide
Hosackia Oblongifolia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not need frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Hosackia Oblongifolia prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hosackia Oblongifolia is generally a disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can lead to root rot and fungal diseases, so be sure to avoid watering the plant excessively.
Habitat
Hosackia Oblongifolia is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and Mexico. It is commonly found in dry, arid environments such as deserts, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time to plant Hosackia Oblongifolia?
A: The best time to plant Hosackia Oblongifolia is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are mild.
Q: How often should I fertilize Hosackia Oblongifolia?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Hosackia Oblongifolia survive in a humid environment?
A: No, this plant prefers dry, arid environments and does not thrive in humid conditions.
Q: How often should I water Hosackia Oblongifolia?
A: Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering during the winter months.
Related Plants
- Hosackia pinnata
- Hosackia gracilis
- Hosackia crassifolia
References
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Hosackia+oblongifolia
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/hoso2/all.html
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/hosackia/hosackia-oblongifolia
