Contents
Description
Pholistoma Auritum, also known as Cobweb Thistle or Canyon Bluebell, is a species of flowering plant in the family Campanulaceae. It is native to western North America and can be found in dry or rocky areas such as canyons and slopes. The plant has a unique appearance with its cobweb-like hairs covering the stem and leaves. The flowers bloom in the summer and are a bright blue or purple color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Pholistoma |
Appearance
Pholistoma Auritum has a unique appearance with its cobweb-like hairs covering the stem and leaves. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has lance-shaped leaves that are 2-6 inches long. The flowers bloom in the summer and are a bright blue or purple color with five petals. The plant has a clumping or spreading growth habit and can be used as a ground cover or in rock gardens.
Care Guide
Pholistoma Auritum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care.
Water
The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not require frequent watering. During the growing season, the plant should be watered once a week or when the top inch of soil is dry.
Fertilization
Pholistoma Auritum does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
The plant prefers well-draining soil with a neutral pH level. It can tolerate rocky or sandy soil but does not do well in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
Pholistoma Auritum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
Hardiness Zones
The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 10°F (-12°C) but may die back in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pholistoma Auritum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
Pholistoma Auritum is native to western North America and can be found in dry or rocky areas such as canyons and slopes. The plant is adapted to drought and can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pholistoma Auritum a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, Pholistoma Auritum’s spreading growth habit and unique appearance make it a good plant for rock gardens.
Q: Does Pholistoma Auritum require frequent watering?
A: No, Pholistoma Auritum prefers well-draining soil and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pholistoma Auritum?
A: Pholistoma Auritum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: Can Pholistoma Auritum tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Pholistoma Auritum can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well.
Related Plants
- Pholistoma membranaceum
- Pholistoma racemosum
- Pholistoma auriculatum
- Pholistoma laxum
References
- “Pholistoma auritum.” Floristic Synthesis of North America, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2021.
- “Pholistoma auritum.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, n.d. Web. 19 Feb. 2021.
- “Pholistoma auritum.” USDA, NRCS. 2014. The PLANTS Database. National Plant Data Team, Greensboro, NC 27401-4901 USA.
