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Description
Malacothamnus Fasciculatus, commonly known as Mound San Bruno, is a species of flowering plant in the Malvaceae family. It is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 8 feet tall with a spread of 10 feet. It has small, fragrant, pink or lavender flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malacothamnus |
Appearance
Mound San Bruno has long, narrow leaves that are covered in a fine, soft fuzz. The leaves are green and slightly curled at the edges, and they grow in clusters along the stems. The flowers are small, only about 1 inch in diameter, and they have five petals that are pink or lavender in color. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches, and they have a sweet, pleasant scent. After the flowers fade, they are replaced by small, round seed pods that are covered in fine hairs.
Care Guide
Mound San Bruno is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Mound San Bruno prefers well-drained soil and regular watering. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely, but also not to overwater the plant. Aim to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: This plant does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.- Soil: Mound San Bruno prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy clay soil.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not bloom as well in low light conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Mound San Bruno is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mound San Bruno is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and distortion of the leaves. They can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be treated with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery growth on the leaves. It can be treated with fungicides or by improving air circulation and reducing humidity around the plant.
Habitat
Mound San Bruno is native to the western United States, particularly in California and Oregon. It grows in a variety of habitats, including chaparral, coastal sage scrub, and oak woodlands. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mound San Bruno a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Mound San Bruno is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Mound San Bruno be pruned into a hedge?
A: Yes, Mound San Bruno can be pruned into a hedge or topiary shape. It responds well to pruning and can be shaped as desired.
Q: Does Mound San Bruno have any medicinal uses?
A: Some Native American tribes used Mound San Bruno for medicinal purposes, such as treating respiratory ailments and skin conditions. However, it is not commonly used for medicinal purposes today.
Q: Can Mound San Bruno be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mound San Bruno can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system. Use a well-draining soil mix and be sure to water regularly.
Related Plants
– Malacothamnus Davidii- Malacothamnus Fasciculatus Var. Nutans- Malacothamnus Fasciculatus Var. Fasciculatus- Malacothamnus Marrubifolius- Malacothamnus Jepsonii
References
– “Malacothamnus fasciculatus.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m430.- “Mound San Bruno.” Las Pilitas Nursery. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/868–malacothamnus-fasciculatus.- “Malacothamnus fasciculatus.” Calflora. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/app/taxon?crn=1057.
