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Description
Malacothamnus Davidsonii, also known as Davidson’s bushmallow, is a deciduous shrub that is native to the coastal regions of California. This plant belongs to the Malvaceae family and can grow up to 6 feet in height and 8 feet in width. The leaves are green and fuzzy, while the flowers are pink and white, blooming in the spring and summer months. The plant is drought-resistant and can thrive in dry climates.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malacothamnus |
Appearance
The leaves of the Malacothamnus Davidsonii are green and fuzzy, with a velvety texture. The flowers are pink and white, with five petals and a cup-shaped structure. The plant can grow up to 6 feet in height and 8 feet in width, with a sprawling, bushy shape. The bark is gray and smooth, with a peeling texture. The plant blooms in the spring and summer months, attracting bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Malacothamnus Davidsonii is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: The plant is drought-resistant and can survive in dry conditions. Water the plant regularly during the first year of growth, and then reduce the frequency of watering.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. Avoid heavy clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sunlight to thrive. Plant it in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Malacothamnus Davidsonii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malacothamnus Davidsonii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues that you may encounter:
- Spider Mites: These pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and branches, and apply a fungicide to prevent further spread.
Habitat
Malacothamnus Davidsonii is native to the coastal regions of California, where it grows in sunny, dry locations. The plant can be found in chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It is a common plant in the Santa Monica Mountains and the Channel Islands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Malacothamnus Davidsonii a drought-resistant plant?
A: Yes, Malacothamnus Davidsonii is drought-resistant and can survive in dry conditions.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Malacothamnus Davidsonii?
A: Malacothamnus Davidsonii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Q: What is the common name for Malacothamnus Davidsonii?
A: The common name for Malacothamnus Davidsonii is Davidson’s bushmallow.
Q: What is the best soil for Malacothamnus Davidsonii?
A: Malacothamnus Davidsonii prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or loamy. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Related Plants
- Malacothamnus fasciculatus
- Malacothamnus densiflorus
- Malacothamnus davidsonianus
- Malacothamnus aboriginum
References
- “Malacothamnus davidsonii.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/malacothamnus-davidsonii
- “Malacothamnus davidsonii.” Calflora. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Malacothamnus+davidsonii
- “Malacothamnus davidsonii.” The Jepson Herbarium. Accessed 19 August 2021. https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=30881
