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Description
Poliomintha Bustamanta, also known as Bustamante’s rosemary mint, is a member of the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is a flowering plant native to Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas in the United States, and Chihuahua in Mexico. This plant is a low-growing, aromatic shrub that is highly valued for its ornamental and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliophyta |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Poliomintha |
Appearance
Poliomintha Bustamanta has a height of about 1-2 feet and a spread of 2-3 feet. Its foliage is gray-green, and the plant has slender stems that are covered with small, lance-shaped leaves. The leaves are around 1 inch long and give off a strong aroma when crushed. The flowers of Poliomintha Bustamanta are tubular, lavender, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The blooming period for this plant is from May to October, and it is a favorite of bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Care Guide
Poliomintha Bustamanta is a relatively low maintenance plant. Here are some care tips for this plant:
Water: Water deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter months.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
Sunlight: Poliomintha Bustamanta thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Poliomintha Bustamanta is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be attacked by spider mites, mealybugs, and whiteflies. These insects can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Overwatering can also lead to root rot, so make sure not to overwater the plant.
Habitat
Poliomintha Bustamanta is native to the Chihuahuan Desert in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found growing in rocky, well-drained soils in desert washes and on rocky hillsides. This plant is drought-resistant and can tolerate high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Poliomintha Bustamanta deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Poliomintha Bustamanta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers. Make sure to use a well-draining soil mix and water it regularly.
Q: How often should I prune Poliomintha Bustamanta?
A: Prune the plant after the blooming period to promote bushier growth and remove any dead or damaged stems.
Q: Can I use Poliomintha Bustamanta for culinary purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves of this plant can be used to flavor teas, beverages, and dishes.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Poliomintha Bustamanta:
- Poliomintha incana (Grayleaf rosemary mint)
- Poliomintha maderensis (Madeira rosemary mint)
- Poliomintha longiflora (Longflower rosemary mint)
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=POBU
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/other-shrubs/poliomintha-bustamanta
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/rosemary-mint/poliomintha-bustamanta-care.htm
