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Description
Kearnemalvastrum, also known as Malvastrum kearneyi or Kearney’s mallow, is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States, where it can be found in a variety of habitats such as rocky hills, canyons, and desert slopes. Kearnemalvastrum is an annual or perennial plant that can reach up to 60 centimeters in height. It has a woody base and its stems are covered with long hairs. The leaves are alternate and palmately lobed with toothed edges. The flowers are small and pink or lavender in color, with five petals that are arranged in a cup-shaped structure. The fruit is a disc-shaped schizocarp that splits into 10 to 20 segments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malvastrum |
| Species | Kearnemalvastrum kearneyi |
Appearance
Kearnemalvastrum has a unique and attractive appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardeners. Its leaves are dark green and have a velvety texture, which gives them a striking appearance. The flowers are small and pink or lavender in color, and they bloom in late spring or early summer. The plant itself is tall and slender, with a woody base and stems that are covered in long hairs.
Care Guide
Kearnemalvastrum is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to ensure that it thrives. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Kearnemalvastrum prefers well-draining soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: Kearnemalvastrum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of sand, peat moss, and perlite is ideal.- Sunlight: Kearnemalvastrum prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Kearnemalvastrum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7a to 10b.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kearnemalvastrum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. If you notice any signs of infestation, use an insecticidal soap to get rid of the pests. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
Habitat
Kearnemalvastrum is native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including rocky hills, canyons, and desert slopes. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kearnemalvastrum a good choice for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Kearnemalvastrum is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Q: Does Kearnemalvastrum attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Kearnemalvastrum is known to attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I fertilize Kearnemalvastrum?
A: Fertilize Kearnemalvastrum once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal soil mix for Kearnemalvastrum?
A: Kearnemalvastrum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mix of sand, peat moss, and perlite is ideal.
Related Plants
– Malvastrum corchorifolium- Malvastrum americanum- Malvastrum tricuspidatum- Malvastrum coccineum
References
– “Malvastrum kearneyi.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed 1 December 2021. – “Malvastrum kearneyi.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed 1 December 2021. – “Kearney’s Mallow.” Arizona State University. Accessed 1 December 2021.
