Contents
Description
Nama Stevensii is a drought-tolerant plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in North America. This plant is also known as “Purple Mat” or “Scorpionweed”. The name “Nama” comes from a Greek word meaning “to reward”. It is a low growing, mat-forming perennial plant that produces small, purple flowers in the summer. The plant has a unique feature of having a pungent odor, which attracts pollinators. Nama Stevensii is an excellent plant for rock gardens or to use as a ground cover in hot and dry areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Nama |
Appearance
Nama Stevensii is a low-growing plant, with a height of 1-2 inches and a spread of up to 2 feet. The leaves are small, hairy, and gray-green in color, with a lanceolate shape. The plant produces small, purple flowers, which are arranged in clusters and bloom in the summer. The flowers have five petals and are about 1/4 inch in diameter. The plant has a unique odor that can be described as pungent or unpleasant.
Care Guide
Nama Stevensii is a low-maintenance plant and easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant occasionally, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Nama Stevensii in well-draining soil, as it prefers dry conditions.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun, but it can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Nama Stevensii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nama Stevensii is a hardy plant and is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by root rot if overwatered. It can also be attacked by spider mites, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap. Powdery mildew can also affect the plant, which can be prevented by keeping the leaves dry and providing good air circulation.
Habitat
Nama Stevensii is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts in North America. It is commonly found growing in sandy or rocky soil, and it can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions. The plant is well adapted to hot and dry environments and can survive in areas where other plants cannot.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nama Stevensii a plant that requires a lot of attention?
A: No, Nama Stevensii is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for.
Q: Can Nama Stevensii survive in cold climates?
A: No, Nama Stevensii is hardy in USDA zones 9-11 and cannot survive in cold climates.
Q: Does Nama Stevensii have any unique features?
A: Yes, Nama Stevensii has a pungent odor that attracts pollinators.
Q: Can Nama Stevensii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Nama Stevensii can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Nama aretioides
- Nama demissum
- Nama densum
- Nama hispidum
References
- “Nama Stevensii, Purple Mat, Scorpionweed.” High Country Gardens, www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/nama/nama-stevensii.
- “Nama Stevensii.” Desert USA, www.desertusa.com/flora/nama-stevensii.html.
- “Nama Stevensii.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=NAST.
