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Description
Orthocarpus Imbricatus, also known as the common owl’s-clover, is a wildflower that belongs to the Orobanchaceae family. It is native to North America, and can be found in the western United States and northern Mexico. The plant is an annual herb that grows to be about 4 to 20 inches tall, and can spread up to 16 inches wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Orthocarpus |
Appearance
Orthocarpus Imbricatus has a unique appearance with its bright pink-purple flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are tubular with four lobes and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The leaves are green and have a linear shape, and are arranged alternately on the stem. The plant has a taproot and is covered in fine hairs, giving it a fuzzy texture.
Care Guide
Water
Orthocarpus Imbricatus prefers to grow in well-draining soil that is kept consistently moist. However, it is important not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot. Water the plant deeply once a week, and adjust the frequency based on the weather conditions.
Fertilization
Orthocarpus Imbricatus does not require regular fertilization, as it can obtain its nutrients from the soil. However, if the plant is not growing as vigorously as desired, a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring.
Soil
Orthocarpus Imbricatus prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The soil should be rich in organic matter and should be amended with compost or other organic materials to improve its structure.
Sunlight
Orthocarpus Imbricatus thrives in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the plant will produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Orthocarpus Imbricatus is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Orthocarpus Imbricatus is not typically prone to pests or diseases. However, aphids and spider mites can be a problem if the plant is stressed or not growing in optimal conditions. Additionally, root rot can occur if the plant is overwatered or the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Orthocarpus Imbricatus is native to North America and can be found in the western United States and northern Mexico. The plant grows in open areas such as meadows, grasslands, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Orthocarpus Imbricatus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Orthocarpus Imbricatus can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is not overwatered.
Q: Does Orthocarpus Imbricatus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Orthocarpus Imbricatus is a pollinator-friendly plant and can attract bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects.
Q: How often should Orthocarpus Imbricatus be fertilized?
A: Orthocarpus Imbricatus does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring if the plant is not growing as vigorously as desired.
Q: How long does Orthocarpus Imbricatus bloom for?
A: Orthocarpus Imbricatus blooms in late spring and early summer and can continue to flower for up to several weeks.
Related Plants
- Orthocarpus bracteosus
- Orthocarpus purpurascens
- Orthocarpus erianthus
- Orthocarpus densiflorus
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Orthocarpus imbricatus (Torr.) Jeps. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=orim
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Orthocarpus imbricatus. Retrieved from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/orthocarpus-imbricatus
- Calflora. (n.d.). Orthocarpus imbricatus. Retrieved from https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=5835
