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Description
Keckiella Breviflora, also known as the “Short-Flowered Keckiella,” is a beautiful and unique plant that belongs to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is a small perennial shrub that is native to California, particularly in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It is a popular choice for garden enthusiasts as it has a beautiful appearance and is relatively easy to care for.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Keckiella |
| Species | Breviflora |
Appearance
Keckiella Breviflora has a unique appearance that makes it stand out among other plants. It has a woody stem that can grow up to three feet tall, with small, oval-shaped leaves that are about an inch long. The leaves are dark green and glossy, which adds to its beauty. The plant bears flowers that are about an inch long and come in shades of pink or lavender. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and are a sight to behold.
Care Guide
To ensure that Keckiella Breviflora thrives, it is essential to follow a proper care guide. Here are some tips:
Water: Keckiella Breviflora needs moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the right amount of fertilizer to use.
Soil: Keckiella Breviflora prefers well-draining, sandy soil. The soil should be neutral to slightly acidic, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun to partial shade. It needs at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to bloom correctly.
Hardiness Zones: Keckiella Breviflora is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Keckiella Breviflora is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can still be affected by some common problems such as:
Leaf Spot: This is a fungal disease that causes the leaves to develop brown or black spots. It can be treated with a fungicide.
Aphids: Aphids are small insects that suck sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Keckiella Breviflora is native to California and grows in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. It prefers dry, rocky slopes and can be found at elevations of up to 8,000 feet. The plant is an essential part of the ecosystem as it provides food and shelter for birds and insects.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Keckiella Breviflora a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Keckiella Breviflora is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in dry conditions. However, it still needs regular watering to thrive.
Q: Can Keckiella Breviflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Keckiella Breviflora can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Keckiella Breviflora be fertilized?
A: Keckiella Breviflora should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Keckiella Breviflora be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Keckiella Breviflora can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Keckiella Breviflora:
- Keckiella Antirrhinoides
- Keckiella Corymbosa
- Keckiella Lemmonii
- Keckiella Rostrata
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/keckiella_breviflora.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/keckiella-breviflora-short-flowered-keckiella
- https://www.hort.net/profile/cam/kecbre/
