Contents
Description
Justicia Californica is a beautiful native Californian plant that belongs to the acanthus family, Acanthaceae. It is commonly known as the California Plummer’s weed or chuparosa. The plant has a shrub-like growth habit and can grow up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. Justicia Californica is known for its medicinal properties and has been used by Native Americans for centuries to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Justicia |
Appearance
Justicia Californica has green leaves that are about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are slightly serrated and have a pointed tip. The plant produces beautiful tubular flowers that are about an inch long and come in shades of red, pink, and orange. The flowers bloom in clusters at the end of the branches and attract hummingbirds and bees. The plant blooms from spring to fall.
Care Guide
To care for Justicia Californica, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Justicia Californica prefers full sun but can also tolerate some shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
Justicia Californica is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can sometimes be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of neem oil and water. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Justicia Californica is native to Southern California and can be found growing in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and riparian habitats. The plant prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Justicia Californica toxic to pets?
A: No, Justicia Californica is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can Justicia Californica be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Justicia Californica can be grown in a container as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: How often should Justicia Californica be fertilized?
A: Justicia Californica should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How can I propagate Justicia Californica?
A: Justicia Californica can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the spring or summer and rooting them in moist soil.
Related Plants
- Justicia brandegeeana
- Justicia aurea
- Justicia carnea
- Justicia spicigera
References
- https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=3266
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/justicia/california-plummers-weed.htm
- https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=1323
