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Description
Leucophyllum Minus, commonly known as Big Bend Silverleaf or Shrubby Sage, is a drought-tolerant plant belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae. This evergreen shrub is native to the Chihuahuan Desert and the Trans-Pecos region of Texas. Leucophyllum Minus is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive silver-green leaves and profuse blooms that appear from late summer through fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Leucophyllum |
Appearance
Leucophyllum Minus is a dense, rounded shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. The leaves are small, narrow, and covered with fine white hairs that give them a silvery appearance. The plant produces tubular, lavender-pink flowers with darker purple spots in the throat. The blooms are typically 1 inch long and appear in clusters at the ends of the branches.
Care Guide
Leucophyllum Minus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your Shrubby Sage healthy:
Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering in the winter months when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization: Fertilize your shrub once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: Leucophyllum Minus prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 8.0.
Sunlight: Plant your Shrubby Sage in full sun to ensure optimal growth and blooming.
Hardiness Zones: Leucophyllum Minus is hardy in USDA zones 8b to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leucophyllum Minus is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly-draining soil can cause root rot. Make sure to plant your shrub in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Leucophyllum Minus is native to the Chihuahuan Desert and the Trans-Pecos region of Texas. It is commonly found growing in rocky or sandy soils, washes, and along arroyos. The plant is well-adapted to the hot and dry conditions of its habitat, and it is an important food source for many desert animals.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Leucophyllum Minus deer resistant?
A: Yes, Shrubby Sage is deer resistant.
Q: Can I prune my Leucophyllum Minus?
A: Yes, you can prune your Shrubby Sage to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Leucophyllum Minus?
A: Fertilize your Shrubby Sage once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Leucophyllum Minus?
A: Leucophyllum Minus is hardy in USDA zones 8b to 11.
Related Plants
- Leucophyllum frutescens
- Leucophyllum laevigatum
- Leucophyllum pruinosum
References
- “Leucophyllum minus.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, accessed April 9, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LEMIM
- “Leucophyllum minus.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, accessed April 9, 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/databases/plantanswers/plantedetail.php?id=656
