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Description
Scrophularia Californica is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the figwort family, Scrophulariaceae. It is native to the western United States, including California, Oregon, and Washington. This plant is also known by several common names, such as California figwort, bee plant, and Carpenter’s square. It grows up to 2-4 feet tall and has a spreading habit. The stems are square-shaped and hairy, while the leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges. Scrophularia Californica produces small, tubular, greenish-yellow flowers in clusters from late spring to early fall. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Scrophularia |
Appearance
Scrophularia Californica has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. The plant has square-shaped, hairy stems that are green or reddish-brown. The leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges. They are dark green and have a rough texture. The flowers are small, tubular, and greenish-yellow. They grow in clusters and bloom from late spring to early fall. The plant produces small, round, brownish-black seeds that can be harvested for propagation.
Care Guide
Scrophularia Californica is a relatively easy plant to care for. It can grow in a wide range of soil types, from sandy to loamy. The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall. Scrophularia Californica prefers partial shade to full sun and can grow in hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scrophularia Californica is generally pest-free, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Scrophularia Californica is native to the western United States, where it can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and chaparral. It prefers moist, shady areas but can also grow in sunny locations. The plant is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scrophularia Californica a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Scrophularia Californica is an excellent plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Scrophularia Californica grow in full sun?
A: Yes, Scrophularia Californica can grow in full sun, but it prefers partial shade.
Q: Does Scrophularia Californica require a lot of watering?
A: No, Scrophularia Californica requires moderate watering and prefers well-draining soil.
Q: How can I propagate Scrophularia Californica?
A: Scrophularia Californica can be propagated by seed, division, or stem cuttings.
Related Plants
- Scrophularia lanceolata
- Scrophularia auriculata
- Scrophularia nodosa
- Scrophularia marilandica
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/scrophularia_californica.shtml
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=7776
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SCCA4
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/scrophularia-californica
