Contents
Description
Psilostrophe is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, native to North America. It is commonly known as brittlebush, due to its thin and fragile branches. The plant has yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and fall, making it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes. The genus name, Psilostrophe, comes from the Greek words psilos, meaning “bare,” and strophos, meaning “a twisted cord.” This refers to the bare, twisted branches of the plant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Psilostrophe |
Appearance
The Psilostrophe plant has a rounded shape and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 5 feet wide. The leaves are small and gray-green in color, with a fuzzy texture. The flowers are bright yellow and have a daisy-like appearance. They typically bloom in the spring and fall, but can also bloom during the summer if conditions are right. The plant’s thin and fragile branches give it a delicate appearance, but it is actually quite hardy and able to withstand dry conditions.
Care Guide
Psilostrophe is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and less frequently during the winter months. Allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Psilostrophe prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Psilostrophe is hardy in zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psilostrophe is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Psilostrophe is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant is well-suited to hot and dry environments, and can often be found growing in rocky or sandy soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psilostrophe a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, Psilostrophe is well-suited to hot and dry environments and can tolerate drought conditions.
Q: Can Psilostrophe be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Psilostrophe can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Psilostrophe?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Psilostrophe be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Psilostrophe can be propagated from cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Encelia farinosa
- Baileya multiradiata
- Ambrosia dumosa
- Eriogonum fasciculatum
References
- “Psilostrophe.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilostrophe.
- “Brittlebush.” Arizona State University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/brittlebush.html.
- “Psilostrophe cooperi.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PSCO14.
