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Description
Larrea Divaricata, commonly known as the creosote bush, is a shrub native to the arid regions of the Americas, particularly in the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. It’s a hardy plant that can survive in extreme heat and drought conditions, making it ideal for xeriscaping. The plant is known for its distinctive resinous odor, which comes from the volatile compounds in its leaves and stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukarya||————-|———–|| Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Tracheophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Zygophyllales || Family| Zygophyllaceae || Genus| Larrea|
Appearance
Larrea Divaricata is a small to medium-sized evergreen shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide. The plant has small, glossy, and resinous leaves that are typically oval-shaped with a length of 0.4 to 0.8 inches. Its flowers are bright yellow and bloom in the spring and summer months, while its fruit is a small capsule that contains tiny seeds. The plant’s roots can extend up to 50 feet, allowing it to absorb water from a large area.
Care Guide
Larrea Divaricata is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for it:- Water: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. However, it’s best to water it occasionally in the summer months to promote growth.- Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require much fertilization. You can use a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soils, such as sandy or rocky soils.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: Larrea Divaricata grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Larrea Divaricata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it’s susceptible to spider mites and scale insects, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or horticultural oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring the soil is well-drained.
Habitat
Larrea Divaricata is commonly found in the arid regions of the Americas, where it can survive in extreme heat and drought conditions. It grows well in deserts, rocky slopes, and other areas with well-draining soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Larrea Divaricata poisonous?A: No, the plant is not poisonous, but its leaves and stems contain volatile compounds that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.Q: How often should I water Larrea Divaricata?A: The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. However, it’s best to water it occasionally in the summer months to promote growth.Q: Can I grow Larrea Divaricata in a container?A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it has adequate drainage and is placed in a sunny location.Q: How tall can Larrea Divaricata grow?A: The plant can grow up to 10 feet tall and 12 feet wide.
Related Plants
– Larrea Tridentata- Zygophyllum Dumosum- Acacia Greggii- Atriplex Canescens- Opuntia Ficus-Indica
References
– “Larrea divaricata.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 29 Jan. 2022, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larrea_divaricata.- “Creosote Bush.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, www.desertmuseum.org/books/nhsd_creosote.php.
