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Description
Mentzelia Hispida, commonly known as stickleaf or bristly mentzelia, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Loasaceae family. It is an annual plant that grows up to 60 cm tall and is native to western North America. The plant has large, showy, yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. The leaves of this plant are arranged opposite each other on the stem and are deeply lobed. The plant is known for its stick-like bristles that cover its stem and leaves, which can cause skin irritation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Loasaceae |
| Genus | Mentzelia |
Appearance
Mentzelia Hispida has a unique appearance due to its stick-like bristles that cover the stem and leaves. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has large, showy, yellow flowers that bloom from June to September. The leaves of this plant are deeply lobed and arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers have five petals and can be up to 10 cm in diameter. The plant has a taproot system and is known for its ability to adapt to dry and rocky soils.
Care Guide
Mentzelia Hispida is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow in rocky or sandy soil.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mentzelia Hispida is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and browning of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
Mentzelia Hispida is native to western North America and can be found in dry and rocky soils. The plant can grow in prairies, savannas, and open woodlands. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and extreme temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mentzelia Hispida a perennial plant?
A: No, Mentzelia Hispida is an annual plant.Q: What is the blooming period of Mentzelia Hispida?
A: The blooming period of Mentzelia Hispida is from June to September.Q: How tall can Mentzelia Hispida grow?
A: Mentzelia Hispida can grow up to 60 cm tall.Q: Is Mentzelia Hispida a pest and disease-resistant plant?
A: Yes, Mentzelia Hispida is relatively pest and disease-resistant.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Mentzelia Hispida:- Mentzelia Decapetala- Mentzelia Laevicaulis- Mentzelia Multiflora- Mentzelia Nuda
References
– “Mentzelia Hispida.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=273510&isprofile=0&.- “Mentzelia Hispida.” Flora of North America, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=242415110.
