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Description
Sphaeralcea Coulteri, also known as Coulter’s Globe Mallow, is a flowering perennial plant that belongs to the mallow family (Malvaceae). It is native to southwestern North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, chaparral, and open woodlands. This plant features a woody base, multiple stems, and dark green leaves that are triangular or heart-shaped. Its flowers, which bloom from spring to fall, are typically orange, but can also be pink or red. They resemble small globes and are about an inch in diameter. The fruit of the plant is a small, round capsule that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sphaeralcea |
Appearance
Sphaeralcea Coulteri is a relatively small plant, growing up to 2-3 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are typically 1-3 inches long and 0.5-2 inches wide, with serrated edges. The plant produces numerous stems that are covered in fine hairs, giving them a fuzzy appearance. The flowers, which bloom from March to November, are usually bright orange, but can also be pink or red. Each flower has five petals and a central column that contains the stamens and pistil. The fruit of the plant is a small, round capsule that is covered in fine hairs.
Care Guide
Sphaeralcea Coulteri is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: Globe mallows prefer well-draining soil and do not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring to fall).- Soil: Globe mallows prefer well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline (pH 6.0-8.0). If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with sand or gravel to improve drainage.- Sunlight: This plant needs full sun to thrive. Make sure it gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: Sphaeralcea Coulteri is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sphaeralcea Coulteri is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also develop root rot if it is overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not water the plant too often.
Habitat
Sphaeralcea Coulteri is native to southwestern North America and can be found in various habitats, including deserts, chaparral, and open woodlands. It is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can tolerate poor soil and drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sphaeralcea Coulteri a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, globe mallows are great for attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Sphaeralcea Coulteri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, but make sure the container is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage.
Q: How often should I prune Sphaeralcea Coulteri?
A: Prune the plant in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged growth. You can also prune it after the first flush of flowers to encourage more blooms.
Q: Can Sphaeralcea Coulteri be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate globe mallows from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Sphaeralcea genus:- Sphaeralcea ambigua (Desert Mallow)- Sphaeralcea coccinea (Scarlet Globemallow)- Sphaeralcea munroana (Munro’s Globemallow)- Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia (Gooseberry-leaved Globemallow)
References
– “Sphaeralcea Coulteri.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SPCO3.- “Sphaeralcea Coulteri.” Arizona State University, School of Life Sciences, www.swbiodiversity.org/seinet/taxa/index.php?taxon=10649.
