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Description
Nemophila Aphylla, commonly known as the desert nemophila or ghost nemophila, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Hydrophyllaceae family. It is native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts of the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. The plant has a short lifespan, usually completing its life cycle in a single season.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Genus | Nemophila |
Appearance
The Nemophila Aphylla plant grows up to 20 cm tall and spreads up to 30 cm wide. The stem is light green, hairy, and slender. The leaves are basal, deeply divided, and have a fern-like appearance. The flowers grow in small clusters at the end of the stems and are white with yellow centers. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Nemophila Aphylla is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained sandy or loamy soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nemophila Aphylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. Pests that may attack the plant include aphids, thrips, and spider mites. To prevent these problems, keep the plant healthy and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Nemophila Aphylla is found in dry, sandy or rocky areas of the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. It grows in areas with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nemophila Aphylla a perennial or annual plant?
A: Nemophila Aphylla is an annual plant.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the soil of Nemophila Aphylla?
A: The plant prefers a soil pH between 6.5 and 7.5.
Q: What are some common pests that may attack Nemophila Aphylla?
A: Pests that may attack the plant include aphids, thrips, and spider mites.
Q: Where is Nemophila Aphylla found?
A: Nemophila Aphylla is found in dry, sandy or rocky areas of the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts.
Related Plants
- Nemophila maculata
- Nemophila menziesii
- Nemophila parviflora
- Nemophila phacelioides
References
- “Nemophila Aphylla (Ghost Nemophila).” Arizona State University. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/nemophilaaphylla.html
- “Nemophila Aphylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287118&isprofile=0&
- “Nemophila Aphylla.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/182977/
