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Description
Malacothrix Fendleri, also known as Fendler’s desert dandelion, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its bright yellow flowers and woolly leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Malacothrix |
Appearance
Malacothrix Fendleri has a rosette of woolly leaves that are deeply lobed with toothed margins. The leaves are gray-green in color and can grow up to 20 cm long. The plant also produces a tall, leafless stem that can reach up to 60 cm in height. At the top of the stem, the plant produces a single bright yellow flower head that is up to 5 cm in diameter. The flower head is made up of many small individual flowers that are arranged in a circular pattern.
Care Guide
Water
Malacothrix Fendleri prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. It is important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings. During the summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering.
Fertilization
Malacothrix Fendleri does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Soil
Malacothrix Fendleri prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate sandy or rocky soil, but does not do well in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
Malacothrix Fendleri prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones
Malacothrix Fendleri is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Malacothrix Fendleri is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Malacothrix Fendleri is native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in desert and semi-desert habitats, often growing in sandy or rocky soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Malacothrix Fendleri a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Malacothrix Fendleri is well-suited for xeriscaping. It is tolerant of drought and can thrive in arid environments.
Q: Can Malacothrix Fendleri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Malacothrix Fendleri can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Malacothrix Fendleri attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Malacothrix Fendleri is a valuable source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should Malacothrix Fendleri be fertilized?
A: Malacothrix Fendleri does not require regular fertilization. However, adding a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Related Plants
– Malacothrix californica- Malacothrix glabrata- Malacothrix saxatilis
References
– “Malacothrix fendleri.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MAFE.- “Malacothrix fendleri (Fendler’s desertdandelion).” Arizona State University, https://swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=Malacothrix+fendleri.
