Mentzelia Veatchiana
Contents
Description
Mentzelia Veatchiana, also known as Veatch’s blazingstar or mountain stickleaf, is a perennial wildflower belonging to the Loasaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. This plant is characterized by its tall, slender stems that can reach up to 3 feet in height and its yellow, star-shaped flowers that bloom in the summer months. Mentzelia Veatchiana is a popular choice for rock gardens and xeriscapes due to its tolerance for drought and rocky soils.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Cornales |
| Family | Loasaceae |
| Genus | Mentzelia |
Appearance
Mentzelia Veatchiana has tall, slender stems that are covered in tiny hairs. The leaves are oblong and toothed, with a bluish-green color. The flowers are yellow, star-shaped, and can reach up to 2 inches in diameter. They bloom in the summer months and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous seeds. Overall, this plant has a delicate and graceful appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental purposes.
Care Guide
Mentzelia Veatchiana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water it deeply once a week during the growing season to ensure that the roots receive enough moisture.
- Fertilization: Mentzelia Veatchiana does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring if you want to promote growth.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining, rocky soil. If you are planting it in a container, make sure the container has drainage holes and use a cactus or succulent potting mix.
- Sunlight: Mentzelia Veatchiana prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is important to provide it with at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mentzelia Veatchiana is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, here are some issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, pear-shaped insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause discoloration and webbing on the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by ensuring that the plant has good air circulation.
Habitat
Mentzelia Veatchiana is native to the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. It can be found in rocky, desert habitats such as canyons, slopes, and mesas. This plant is adapted to dry, arid conditions and can tolerate high temperatures and low humidity.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mentzelia Veatchiana a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Mentzelia Veatchiana is a great choice for rock gardens due to its tolerance for rocky soils and drought.
Q: Can Mentzelia Veatchiana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mentzelia Veatchiana can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the plant is grown in well-draining soil.
Q: What is the best time to plant Mentzelia Veatchiana?
A: The best time to plant Mentzelia Veatchiana is in the spring, after the last frost date in your area.
Q: How often should Mentzelia Veatchiana be fertilized?
A: Mentzelia Veatchiana does not require frequent fertilization. You can apply a slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring if you want to promote growth.
Related Plants
- Mentzelia Decapetala
- Mentzelia Hirsutissima
- Mentzelia Laevicaulis
- Mentzelia Multiflora
References
- “Mentzelia Veatchiana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021. <https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MEVE5>.
- “Mentzelia Veatchiana.” Arizona Native Plant Society. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021. <https://aznps.com/plants/mentzelia-veatchiana/>.
- “Mentzelia Veatchiana (Veatch’s Blazing Star).” Gardenia.net. Accessed 31 Aug. 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/mentzelia-veatchiana-veatchs-blazing-star>.
