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Description
Oenothera Deltoides, commonly known as the Sundrops, is a herbaceous plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the Onagraceae family and is widely known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom abundantly in spring and summer. The plant has a rosette of basal leaves that are lanceolate and have a few teeth at the margin. The flowers have four petals and are about 2-3 cm wide. The plant grows up to a height of 30-60 cm and spreads up to 60-90 cm.
Taxonomic Information
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Plantae
Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Myrtales
Family: Onagraceae
Genus: Oenothera
Appearance
The Sundrops plant has a beautiful appearance with bright yellow flowers that bloom in spring and summer. The basal leaves are slender, lanceolate, and are up to 15 cm long. The flowers have four petals that are 2-3 cm wide and bright yellow in color. The fruit of the plant is a capsule, which is 2-4 cm long and contains numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Sundrops require moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once in spring with a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.
Soil: Sundrops prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0-7.0.
Sunlight: Sundrops require full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Sundrops grow best in hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sundrops are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they are susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. The plant may also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Sundrops are native to North America and grow in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. They prefer well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season for Sundrops?
A: Sundrops bloom in spring and summer.
Q: Can Sundrops grow in containers?
A: Yes, Sundrops can be grown in containers.
Q: Do Sundrops attract butterflies?
A: Yes, Sundrops are known to attract butterflies.
Q: What is the ideal pH level for Sundrops?
A: Sundrops prefer soil with a pH level between 6.0-7.0.
Related Plants
- Oenothera fruticosa
- Oenothera macrocarpa
- Oenothera missouriensis
- Oenothera speciosa
References
- “Oenothera Deltoides (Sundrops).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/oenothera-deltoides-sundrops.
- “Oenothera Deltoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j790.
- “Oenothera Deltoides.” Plant Finder, www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/oenothera/oenothera-deltoides.
