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Description
Pteryxia Terebinthina, commonly known as the Turpentine Bush, is a small shrub that is native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico. This plant is a member of the Zygophyllaceae family and is known for its fragrant resin that smells like turpentine, hence its common name. The Turpentine Bush can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide, producing small yellow flowers that bloom from March to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Zygophyllales |
| Family | Zygophyllaceae |
| Genus | Pteryxia |
Appearance
The Turpentine Bush has small, gray-green leaves that are about an inch long and half an inch wide. The leaves are covered in fine hairs and are arranged alternately on the stems. The plant produces small yellow flowers that are about a quarter inch in diameter and have five petals. The flowers bloom from March to June and are followed by small, woody fruits that contain the seeds. The plant has a dense, bushy growth habit and can grow up to three feet tall and wide.
Care Guide
The Turpentine Bush is a hardy plant that requires very little care. It can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping. However, it will grow best in well-drained soil and with moderate watering. The plant prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate high temperatures. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Water
The Turpentine Bush is drought-tolerant and can survive with very little water. However, it will grow best with moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
The Turpentine Bush does not require fertilization. However, if you want to encourage growth, you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil
The Turpentine Bush can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils. However, it prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight
The Turpentine Bush prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
The Turpentine Bush is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Turpentine Bush is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
The Turpentine Bush is native to the Southwestern United States and Northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky, and sandy habitats. It is commonly found in desert scrub, chaparral, and coastal sage scrub communities.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Turpentine Bush poisonous?
A: No, the Turpentine Bush is not poisonous.
Q: Can the Turpentine Bush be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the resin of the Turpentine Bush has been used for medicinal purposes, including as a diuretic and as a treatment for rheumatism.
Q: How often should I water my Turpentine Bush?
A: Water your Turpentine Bush deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.
Q: Can the Turpentine Bush be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Turpentine Bush can be grown in a container, provided it has good drainage and is planted in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
- Pachycormus discolor
- Fagonia laevis
- Zygophyllum fabago
References
- “Pteryxia terebinthina.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Pteryxia terebinthina.” Arizona State University.
- “Turpentine Bush.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
