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Description
Malacothamnus Densiflorus, commonly known as the Island Bushmallow or Hoary Malacothamnus, is a shrub that belongs to the family of Malvaceae. It is native to the Channel Islands off the coast of Southern California and Baja California. This evergreen shrub typically grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malacothamnus |
Appearance
The Island Bushmallow has a dense and rounded growth habit with a woody stem and branches. The leaves are gray-green and fuzzy, giving the plant a soft and velvety texture. The flowers are small and pink or white, blooming in clusters from late spring to early summer. The fruit is a small, round capsule that contains tiny seeds.
Care Guide
Malacothamnus Densiflorus is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-draining soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant, but regular watering during the first year of growth is recommended. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of organic fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Island Bushmallow is susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests. Diseases that may affect Malacothamnus Densiflorus include root rot and powdery mildew. Proper drainage and air circulation can prevent these issues.
Habitat
Malacothamnus Densiflorus is endemic to the Channel Islands, where it grows in the coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate salt spray from the ocean. This shrub is an important component of the island ecosystem, providing habitat and food for native wildlife.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Malacothamnus Densiflorus?
A: During the first year of growth, water regularly. After that, this shrub is drought-tolerant and needs only occasional watering.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Malacothamnus Densiflorus?
A: This shrub is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.Q: Does Malacothamnus Densiflorus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, this shrub provides habitat and food for native wildlife such as birds and insects.Q: How can I control pests on my Malacothamnus Densiflorus?
A: Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control spider mites and whiteflies.
Related Plants
- Malacothamnus Fasciculatus
- Malacothamnus Hallii
- Malacothamnus Japonicus
- Malacothamnus Mucronatus
- Malacothamnus Parishii
References
- “Malacothamnus densiflorus (Island bushmallow).” Calscape, California Native Plant Society, https://calscape.org/Malacothamnus-densiflorus-().
- “Malacothamnus densiflorus.” San Marcos Growers, https://www.sanmarcosgrowers.com/plant-name/malacothamnus-densiflorus.
- “Malacothamnus densiflorus.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MADE5.
