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Description
Pavonia Spinifex, also known as Rock Rose, is a beautiful perennial plant that belongs to the Malvaceae family. This plant is native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, including Texas and New Mexico. It is known for its stunning pink flowers that bloom in late spring and summer, and it can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Pavonia |
Appearance
Pavonia Spinifex has a bushy, shrub-like appearance with semi-evergreen foliage that is soft to the touch. The leaves are dark green and have a fuzzy texture, and they are about 2 inches long and 1 inch wide. The flowers are the highlight of this plant, with vibrant pink petals that form a cup-like shape. The flowers are about 2 inches in diameter and have a yellow center. Pavonia Spinifex blooms from late spring to summer and sometimes into the fall.
Care Guide
Pavonia Spinifex is a relatively low-maintenance plant, but it does require some care to thrive. Here are the key factors to consider when caring for this plant:
Water: Pavonia Spinifex prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to boost growth and flowering.
Soil: The ideal soil for Pavonia Spinifex is well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Amend heavy clay soil with sand and organic matter to improve drainage.
Sunlight: Pavonia Spinifex prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not bloom as profusely in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Pavonia Spinifex is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pavonia Spinifex is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. The plant may also be attractive to aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Pavonia Spinifex is native to rocky, desert habitats in Mexico and the southwestern United States. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate hot, dry weather. This plant is often used in xeriscaping and rock gardens, but it can also be grown in containers on a patio or balcony.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pavonia Spinifex drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Pavonia Spinifex is drought-tolerant once established. However, it will perform best with regular watering during dry periods.
Q: Can Pavonia Spinifex be grown indoors?
A: While Pavonia Spinifex can be grown in a container indoors, it prefers bright, direct sunlight and may not bloom as well indoors.
Q: How often should Pavonia Spinifex be fertilized?
A: Pavonia Spinifex can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: When is the best time to prune Pavonia Spinifex?
A: Prune Pavonia Spinifex in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and shape the plant as desired.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that are similar to Pavonia Spinifex:
- Pavonia hastata
- Pavonia lasiopetala
- Pavonia missionum
- Pavonia odorata
- Pavonia praemorsa
References
- Gardening Know How. (2021). Rock Rose Plant Care: Learn About Growing Pavonia Spinifex. Retrieved from https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rock-rose/rock-rose-plant-care.htm
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pavonia Spinifex. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277827&isprofile=0&
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (2018). Growing Rock Rose in Central Florida. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/FP300
