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Description
Pickeringia is a genus of flowering plants found in North America. It consists of only one species, Pickeringia montana, which is also known as mountain spray. This plant is a member of the Rosaceae family and is native to California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukarya |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Tracheophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Rosales |
Family | Rosaceae |
Genus | Pickeringia |
Appearance
Pickeringia montana is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 10 feet tall. It has slender, arching branches that are covered in small, oval-shaped leaves. The leaves are dark green on top and pale green underneath. In the spring, the plant produces clusters of small white flowers that are followed by red or brown fruit in the fall. The fruit is edible but not commonly consumed.
Care Guide
Pickeringia montana is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Pickeringia montana is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pickeringia montana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fire blight, a bacterial disease that causes leaves and branches to wilt and turn black. This disease can be prevented by pruning infected branches and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Pickeringia montana is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, where it can be found in dry forests, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It is commonly seen on the west side of the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pickeringia montana poisonous?
A: No, Pickeringia montana is not poisonous. However, the fruit is not commonly consumed.
Q: Can Pickeringia montana tolerate drought?
A: Yes, Pickeringia montana is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pickeringia montana?
A: Pickeringia montana is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Q: How tall can Pickeringia montana grow?
A: Pickeringia montana can grow up to 10 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Amelanchier
- Cercocarpus
- Cotoneaster
- Crataegus
- Malus
References
- Flora of North America: Pickeringia montana
- USDA Plants Database: Pickeringia montana
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Pickeringia montana