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Description
Lepechinia Caulescens, commonly known as Pitcher sage, is an evergreen shrub that is native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats of California, USA. It is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae, and has a strong scent when the leaves are crushed. The plant can grow up to 4 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and its flowers bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Lepechinia |
Appearance
The leaves of Lepechinia Caulescens are bright green, fuzzy, and have a strong minty scent. They are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem and can grow up to 6 inches long. The flowers are tubular and range in color from light pink to lavender. They grow in clusters at the end of the stem and can attract bees and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Lepechinia Caulescens is a low-maintenance plant that prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not need much water once established. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or slow-release fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. The ideal hardiness zone for this plant is 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lepechinia Caulescens is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Lepechinia Caulescens is native to the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats of California, USA. It can be found growing in rocky and sandy soils, in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Lepechinia Caulescens?
A: Once established, this plant is drought-tolerant and does not need much water. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for this plant?
A: The ideal hardiness zone for Lepechinia Caulescens is 8 to 10.
Q: Does this plant attract bees and hummingbirds?
A: Yes, the tubular flowers of Lepechinia Caulescens can attract bees and hummingbirds.
Q: Is this plant susceptible to any pests or diseases?
A: Lepechinia Caulescens is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Related Plants
– Lepechinia fragrans (Island Pitcher Sage)- Lepechinia hastata (Hartweg’s Pitcher Sage)- Lepechinia grandiflora (Large-Flowered Pitcher Sage)
References
– California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Lepechinia caulescens. https://www.calscape.org/Lepechinia-caulescens-().- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Lepechinia caulescens. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/lepechinia-caulescens.
