Contents
Description
Sphaeralcea Hastulata, commonly known as the spear-leaf globemallow, is a wildflower native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is a perennial shrub that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The plant blooms in mid-summer with bright orange flowers that resemble miniature hollyhocks, attracting bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sphaeralcea |
Appearance
The spear-leaf globemallow has gray-green leaves that are shaped like spears, giving the plant its common name. The leaves are covered with fine hairs that help the plant retain moisture in dry conditions. The flowers are bright orange and cup-shaped, with five petals that are fused at the base. Each flower is about an inch wide and grows on a long stem above the foliage. The plant blooms in mid-summer and continues to flower for several weeks.
Care Guide
Sphaeralcea Hastulata is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping your plant healthy:
- Water: Water your plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter. The plant is drought-tolerant but will benefit from regular watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to leggy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sphaeralcea Hastulata is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering. If you notice any signs of fungal disease, such as leaf spotting or discoloration, treat with a fungicide. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but these can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Sphaeralcea Hastulata is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions. The plant prefers rocky, well-draining soil and can be found in desert scrub, grasslands, and pinyon-juniper woodlands. It is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sphaeralcea Hastulata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Sphaeralcea Hastulata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Sphaeralcea Hastulata require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but you can trim it back in the fall to promote bushier growth.
Q: Can Sphaeralcea Hastulata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Sphaeralcea ambigua
- Sphaeralcea coccinea
- Sphaeralcea fendleri
- Sphaeralcea incana
- Sphaeralcea munroana
References
- “Sphaeralcea Hastulata.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- “Sphaeralcea Hastulata.” Plant of the Week. University of Arizona.
- “Sphaeralcea Hastulata.” Plants of the Southwest.
