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Description
Pickeringia Montana, also known as chaparral pea or mountain sweetpea, is a native shrub in the Western United States. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is commonly found in dry, rocky areas, such as chaparral and sagebrush habitats. The plant has a woody stem, which can grow up to six feet tall, and a dense crown of leaves. It produces fragrant white or pinkish flowers, which bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pickeringia |
Appearance
Pickeringia Montana has a dense crown of leaves, which are small and oval-shaped. The leaves are dark green on the upper surface and pale underneath. The plant produces fragrant flowers, which are white or pinkish and bloom in clusters. The flowers are followed by small, brownish pods, which contain one or two seeds. The shrub can grow up to six feet tall and three feet wide.
Care Guide
To care for Pickeringia Montana, provide it with well-draining soil, full sunlight, and occasional watering. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. It does not require fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pickeringia Montana is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by spider mites, which can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant. To control spider mites, spray the plant with a miticide. The plant can also be affected by root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is well-draining and water the plant only when the soil is dry.
Habitat
Pickeringia Montana is native to the Western United States, where it is commonly found in dry, rocky areas, such as chaparral and sagebrush habitats. The plant can also be found in open forests, meadows, and along roadsides. It is often used in landscaping for its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pickeringia Montana a good plant for landscaping?
A: Yes, Pickeringia Montana is a good plant for landscaping because of its fragrant flowers and attractive foliage.
Q: Can Pickeringia Montana tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Pickeringia Montana is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Q: What is the best soil type for Pickeringia Montana?
A: Pickeringia Montana can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and rocky soils. It requires well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water Pickeringia Montana?
A: Pickeringia Montana does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
Related Plants
- Pickeringia montana var. tomentosa
- Amorpha californica
- Ceanothus thyrsiflorus
- Rhus ovata
References
- “Pickeringia Montana.” USDA Plants Database, United States Department of Agriculture, plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PIMO7.
- Moore, Michael J. Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West. Santa Fe, Museum of New Mexico Press, 2011.
- “Chaparral Pea.” Las Pilitas Nursery, www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/pickeringia-montana.
