Contents
Description
Scholtzia is a genus of wildflowers that are native to California and Baja California. The genus was named after John Scholtz, a physician and naturalist who lived in California during the 19th century. Scholtzia is a member of the family Papaveraceae, which also includes the poppies.The flowers of Scholtzia are known for their bright and vibrant colors. They bloom in the spring and summer months, typically from April to July. The flowers are also known for their distinctive shape, which is cup-like with four petals. The petals are usually a shade of pink or purple, but can also be white or yellow.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Scholtzia |
Appearance
Scholtzia flowers are known for their cup-like shape with four petals. The petals are usually a shade of pink or purple, but can also be white or yellow. The flowers can grow up to 2 inches in diameter and are usually held above the foliage on long stems.The foliage of Scholtzia is typically green and fern-like, with finely divided leaves. The foliage can grow up to 1 foot tall and forms a dense mound.
Care Guide
Scholtzia is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for growing and maintaining Scholtzia:Water: Scholtzia prefers well-drained soil, but will tolerate some moisture. Water regularly, but do not overwater.Fertilization: Scholtzia does not require much fertilization. A light application of fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth and blooming.Soil: Scholtzia prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, from sandy to clay.Sunlight: Scholtzia prefers full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but will bloom best in full sun.Hardiness Zones: Scholtzia is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scholtzia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be susceptible to some common issues. Here are some of the pests and diseases that can affect Scholtzia:Aphids: Aphids can be a problem for Scholtzia, especially in the spring. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the foliage of Scholtzia. They can be controlled with slug and snail bait.Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can affect the foliage of Scholtzia. It can be controlled with a fungicide.
Habitat
Scholtzia is native to California and Baja California. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including coastal scrub, chaparral, and grasslands. Scholtzia is typically found in areas with well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scholtzia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scholtzia can be grown in containers. Make sure the container has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.Q: How often should Scholtzia be watered?
A: Scholtzia should be watered regularly, but do not overwater. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.Q: Can Scholtzia tolerate frost?
A: No, Scholtzia is not frost-tolerant. It is hardy in zones 8-10.Q: How often should Scholtzia be fertilized?
A: Scholtzia does not require much fertilization. A light application of fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth and blooming.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Scholtzia:- Poppy (Papaver)- California poppy (Eschscholzia californica)- Matilija poppy (Romneya coulteri)- Coastal goldenbush (Isocoma menziesii)
References
– “Scholtzia californica.” Calflora. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Scholtzia+californica.- “Scholtzia.” San Marcos Growers. Accessed August 16, 2021. http://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=3128.
