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Description
Malacothamnus Palmeri, also known as Palmer’s bush mallow, is a plant species belonging to the Malvaceae family. It is a native shrub of California and is known for its beautiful pink flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant is named after Edward Palmer, an English botanist who discovered it in the late 1800s. It is a drought-tolerant plant that is commonly found in dry, rocky areas such as canyons and hillsides.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Malacothamnus |
Appearance
Palmer’s bush mallow is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide. Its leaves are grayish-green in color and are covered with fine hairs. The flowers are pink in color and have five petals that are arranged in a cup shape. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and attracts bees and butterflies. After the flowers fade, the plant produces small, woody capsules that contain seeds.
Care Guide
Water
Palmer’s bush mallow is a drought-tolerant plant and does not require much water. It is important to water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the dormant season.
Fertilization
The plant does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a variety of soil types as long as they are not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Palmer’s bush mallow prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Palmer’s bush mallow is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Palmer’s bush mallow is native to California and can be found in dry, rocky areas such as canyons and hillsides. It is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Palmer’s bush mallow deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I prune Palmer’s bush mallow?
A: The plant does not require much pruning. However, if you want to control its size, you can prune it back after it has finished blooming.
Q: Can I grow Palmer’s bush mallow in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the plant in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate its size.
Q: How long does Palmer’s bush mallow live?
A: The plant can live for several years if it is well-cared for.
Related Plants
- Malacothamnus davidsonii
- Malacothamnus fasciculatus
- Malacothamnus jonesii
- Malacothamnus palmeri var. palmeri
References
- “Malacothamnus palmeri – Plant Finder.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c734.
- “Palmer’s Bush Mallow.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/406–malacothamnus-palmeri.
- “Malacothamnus palmeri | Calflora.” www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Malacothamnus+palmeri.
