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Description
Mentzelia Multiflora, commonly known as Sticky Stickleaf, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Loasaceae family. It is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, fields, and rocky areas. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has a distinctive appearance with its thick, sticky stems and bright yellow flowers. These flowers bloom in the summer months and attract various pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Loasaceae |
| Genus | Mentzelia |
Appearance
Mentzelia Multiflora is a unique plant with a distinct appearance. It has thick, sticky stems that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The leaves are narrow and pointed, and the plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are star-shaped and have five petals with a diameter of about 1 inch. The petals are slightly crinkly and have a papery texture. The plant also produces small, round seed pods that contain numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Mentzelia Multiflora is a low-maintenance plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you care for your Sticky Stickleaf:- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. However, make sure not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization but can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mentzelia Multiflora is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leaf miners. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In terms of diseases, the plant can be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Mentzelia Multiflora is native to western North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, fields, and rocky areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and requires full sun to partial shade to thrive. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Mentzelia Multiflora indoors?
A: While the plant can be grown indoors, it prefers full sun to partial shade and is best suited for outdoor cultivation.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Mentzelia Multiflora?
A: The best time to plant the Sticky Stickleaf is in the spring or fall when temperatures are mild.
Q: Can Mentzelia Multiflora be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: How often should I fertilize Mentzelia Multiflora?
A: The plant does not require heavy fertilization but can benefit from occasional feeding with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
– Mentzelia decapetala- Mentzelia laevicaulis- Mentzelia lindleyi- Mentzelia nuda- Mentzelia oligosperma
References
– “Mentzelia Multiflora” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287871&isprofile=0&.- “Sticky Stickleaf” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MEMU.
