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Description
Nolina Microcarpa, also known as the pygmy nolina, is a plant species that belongs to the Asparagaceae family. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It is a slow-growing evergreen plant that grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. Nolina Microcarpa is a popular ornamental plant because of its attractive foliage and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asparagaceae |
| Genus | Nolina |
| Species | Nolina Microcarpa |
Appearance
Nolina Microcarpa has a rosette of narrow, strap-like leaves that are green to blue-green in color. The leaves can grow up to 1.5 feet long and 0.25 inches wide. The plant produces a tall inflorescence up to 6 feet tall with small, creamy white flowers that bloom in the summer. The plant also produces a fruit that is a brown capsule containing black seeds.
Care Guide
Nolina Microcarpa is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and sparingly during the winter.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in sandy, rocky or clay soils.
- Sunlight: Nolina Microcarpa prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nolina Microcarpa is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be attacked by mealybugs, spider mites and scale insects. Use a neem oil or insecticidal soap to get rid of these pests.
Habitat
Nolina Microcarpa is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in arid regions, such as deserts, rocky slopes, and canyons. It is also commonly found in grasslands and open woodlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nolina Microcarpa a slow-growing plant?
A: Yes, Nolina Microcarpa is a slow-growing plant.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize Nolina Microcarpa?
A: The best time to fertilize Nolina Microcarpa is in the spring.
Q: Can Nolina Microcarpa tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Nolina Microcarpa can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Nolina Microcarpa?
A: Nolina Microcarpa is hardy in zones 7 to 10.
Related Plants
- Nolina Texana
- Nolina Laxa
- Nolina Bigelovii
- Nolina Intermedia
References
- “Nolina Microcarpa.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 9 June 2021.
- “Nolina Microcarpa.” Mountain States Wholesale Nursery. N.p., n.d. Web. 9 June 2021.
- “Nolina Microcarpa.” Arizona State University. N.p., n.d. Web. 9 June 2021.
