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Description
Malacothrix Saxatilis, commonly known as desert dandelion, is an herbaceous perennial plant found in North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a close relative of the common dandelion. Desert dandelion is known for its yellow flowers that bloom in the spring, making it a popular ornamental plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Malacothrix |
Appearance
Desert dandelion has a rosette of basal leaves that are gray-green in color and covered with fine hairs. The leaves are deeply lobed and can reach up to 8 inches in length. The yellow flowers are daisy-like and can reach up to 2 inches in diameter. They have a long stem and grow in clusters at the top of the plant. The flowers bloom in the spring and last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Desert dandelion is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:- Water: Desert dandelion prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Water it sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.- Fertilization: Desert dandelion does not require fertilization, but you can add a small amount of compost or organic fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth.- Soil: Desert dandelion prefers sandy or loamy soil. Make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.- Sunlight: Desert dandelion prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Desert dandelion is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Desert dandelion is relatively pest and disease-resistant, but it can be affected by the following:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to dislodge them, or use an insecticidal soap.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and improve air circulation around the plant to prevent the spread of the disease.
Habitat
Desert dandelion is native to the southwestern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can desert dandelion be grown in containers?
A: Yes, desert dandelion can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should I water desert dandelion?
A: Desert dandelion prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate dry conditions. Water it sparingly, only when the soil is completely dry.
Q: Is desert dandelion a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, desert dandelion is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can desert dandelion be propagated from seed?
A: Yes, desert dandelion can be propagated from seed in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
– Malacothrix Glabrata- Malacothrix Fendleri- Malacothrix Sonchoides- Malacothrix Californica
References
– ITIS Report. (2021). Malacothrix Saxatilis. Integrated Taxonomic Information System.- DesertUSA. (n.d.). Desert Dandelion. Retrieved from https://www.desertusa.com/flora/dandelion.html.- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Plants Profile for Malacothrix Saxatilis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MASA5.
