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Description
Sphaeralcea Incana, commonly known as the gray globemallow or woolly globemallow, is a perennial plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows up to 3 feet tall and wide and is characterized by its rounded leaves and bright orange flowers that bloom from spring to fall. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in various soil types, making it an ideal choice for xeriscaping and low-maintenance gardens.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Sphaeralcea |
Appearance
The leaves of the Sphaeralcea Incana plant are round, gray-green, and velvety to the touch. The flowers are bright orange, cup-shaped, and have five petals. They bloom in clusters from spring to fall and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and wide and has a shrub-like appearance. It is often used in landscaping for its vibrant flowers and low maintenance requirements.
Care Guide
The Sphaeralcea Incana plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in various soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil. It should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season and less frequently during the winter. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done once a year with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sphaeralcea Incana plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly drained soil. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Sphaeralcea Incana plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It grows in desert and semi-arid regions and can be found in rocky slopes, mesas, and washes. The plant is adapted to the hot and dry climate of its natural habitat and is drought-tolerant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Sphaeralcea Incana plant toxic to pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to pets.
Q: Can the Sphaeralcea Incana plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: Does the Sphaeralcea Incana plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should the Sphaeralcea Incana plant be fertilized?
A: Fertilization is not necessary but can be done once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Sphaeralcea ambigua
- Sphaeralcea coccinea
- Sphaeralcea munroana
- Sphaeralcea grossulariifolia
References
- “Sphaeralcea Incana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=spin4.
- “Sphaeralcea Incana.” Arizona State University. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Sphaeralcea&species=incana.
- “Gray Globemallow.” Utah State University Extension. Accessed August 17, 2021. https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/forbsherbaceous/grayspheralcea.
