Contents
Description
Sidalcea Candida, also known as white checkermallow, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mallow family. It is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, slopes, and open woods. This plant typically grows up to 2-3 feet tall and produces small white flowers in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Tracheophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Malvaceae |
| Genus: | Sidalcea |
Appearance
The leaves of Sidalcea Candida are arranged in a basal rosette, and they are deeply lobed with toothed edges. The stems are hairy and erect, and they produce clusters of small white flowers that have five petals. The flowers are arranged in a spikelike inflorescence, and they bloom from June to August. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains many seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Sidalcea Candida, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering during the growing season. It can survive in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 4 to 9. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or a balanced fertilizer can help promote growth.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sidalcea Candida is relatively disease and pest resistant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust. These fungal diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. Leaf spot and stem rot can also occur, especially in wet conditions.
Habitat
Sidalcea Candida is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, slopes, and open woods. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sidalcea Candida a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Sidalcea Candida is a good plant for attracting pollinators, especially bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should I water Sidalcea Candida?
A: Sidalcea Candida should be watered regularly during the growing season, but it should not be overwatered.
Q: Can Sidalcea Candida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Sidalcea Candida can be grown in containers, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Sidalcea Candida have any medicinal properties?
A: Sidalcea Candida has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections and sore throats.
Related Plants
- Sidalcea asprella
- Sidalcea campestris
- Sidalcea glaucescens
- Sidalcea hendersonii
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Sidalcea candida A. Gray. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=SICA6
- Washington Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Sidalcea candida. Retrieved from https://www.wnps.org/plant-directory/details/sidalcea-candida
- Northwest Native Plants Database. (n.d.). Sidalcea candida. Retrieved from https://www.nwplants.com/business/catalog/sid_can.html
