Contents
Description
Psorothamnus Scoparius, also known as broom snakeweed or desert broom, is a perennial shrub that belongs to the Fabaceae family. The plant is native to North America and can be found in dry and arid regions, including deserts, grasslands, and rocky slopes. The shrub can grow up to 6 feet tall and 8 feet wide, with a dense and bushy appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Psorothamnus |
Appearance
The Psorothamnus Scoparius plant features slender, woody stems that are green when young and turn gray as they mature. The leaves are small, narrow, and alternate along the stem, with a length of up to 0.4 inches. The flowers grow in clusters and are small, with a yellow color and a pea-like shape. The fruit is a small pod, which contains several seeds. The plant blooms in the spring and summer, and the seeds are dispersed in the fall.
Care Guide
To care for Psorothamnus Scoparius, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0 to 8.0. Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. The shrub prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate drought conditions. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer, and prune the plant in the fall to maintain its shape. The shrub is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psorothamnus Scoparius is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by root rot and fungal diseases, which can be prevented by ensuring proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
Habitat
Psorothamnus Scoparius is native to dry and arid regions of North America, including the Mojave Desert, the Sonoran Desert, and the Great Basin. The plant can be found in grasslands, rocky slopes, and desert washes, where it can tolerate extreme temperatures and drought conditions. The shrub also provides food and shelter for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Psorothamnus Scoparius be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Psorothamnus Scoparius in containers, it is not recommended, as the plant prefers to grow in well-draining soil and can become root-bound in a container.
Q: What is the best time to prune Psorothamnus Scoparius?
A: It is best to prune Psorothamnus Scoparius in the fall, after the plant has finished blooming, to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Q: How often should Psorothamnus Scoparius be fertilized?
A: Psorothamnus Scoparius should be fertilized once a year, in the spring, with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Psorothamnus Scoparius poisonous?
A: While Psorothamnus Scoparius is not considered toxic, it can cause skin irritation in some people due to its hairy leaves and stems.
Related Plants
- Psorothamnus spinosus
- Psorothamnus emoryi
- Psorothamnus arborescens
- Psorothamnus thompsoniae
References
- “Psorothamnus Scoparius.” USDA Forest Service, Fire Effects Information System, https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/shrub/psoSCO/all.html.
- “Broom Snakeweed.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Broom%20Snakeweed.php.
- “Psorothamnus Scoparius.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PSSC.
