Contents
Description
Kallstroemia Californica, commonly known as California caltrop or Arizona poppy, is a flowering plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and is an annual herb that grows up to 1 meter tall. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to October and has small, spiny fruits that resemble the shape of a caltrop. It is a drought-resistant plant that can grow in sandy or rocky soils in arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Kallstroemia |
Appearance
Kallstroemia Californica has a unique appearance with its bright yellow flowers and spiny fruits. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a branching stem with small leaves that are divided into many leaflets. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have five petals that are about 2 cm long. The fruit is a small, spiny capsule that contains several seeds. The plant’s stem and leaves are covered with fine hairs.
Care Guide
Kallstroemia Californica is a drought-resistant plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant sparingly, as it can tolerate drought. Overwatering can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring if desired.
- Soil: The plant can grow in sandy or rocky soils with good drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Kallstroemia Californica is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kallstroemia Californica is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent pests, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overwatering. If you notice pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Habitat
Kallstroemia Californica is a native plant in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is adapted to grow in arid regions and can be found in sandy or rocky soils in desert areas. The plant is commonly found in the Sonoran and Mojave deserts.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kallstroemia Californica poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can Kallstroemia Californica grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as they have good drainage and receive full sun exposure.
Q: How often should I water Kallstroemia Californica?
A: Water the plant sparingly, as it can tolerate drought. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Q: How long does it take for Kallstroemia Californica to bloom?
A: The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to October.
Related Plants
- Kallstroemia Grandiflora
- Kallstroemia Hortensis
- Kallstroemia Parviflora
References
- “Kallstroemia Californica.” Arizona State University. https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Kallstroemia%20californica
- “Kallstroemia Californica.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=KACA5
- “Kallstroemia Californica.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=KACA5
