Contents
Description
Stachys Eremicola, also known as Mojave hedge nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the southwestern United States, specifically in the Mojave Desert region. This plant typically grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads up to 3 feet wide. It produces whorls of pinkish-purple flowers that bloom from May to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Stachys |
Appearance
The leaves of Stachys Eremicola are green and oval-shaped, with a toothed margin. They are arranged oppositely on the stem and can grow up to 4 inches long. The stems are square-shaped and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are tubular and arranged in whorls around the stem. They are about 1 inch long and have a two-lipped corolla that is pinkish-purple in color. Stachys Eremicola produces small nutlets that are brown and oval-shaped.
Care Guide
Stachys Eremicola is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Stachys Eremicola in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Stachys Eremicola can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stachys Eremicola is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, make sure to keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and prune away any infected or damaged leaves.
Habitat
Stachys Eremicola is native to the Mojave Desert region in the southwestern United States. It can be found in rocky slopes, canyons, and washes, and is often associated with creosote bush and other desert plants. This plant is adapted to the dry and hot climate of the desert and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is Stachys Eremicola easy to grow?
A: Yes, Stachys Eremicola is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. - Q: What is the best time to plant Stachys Eremicola?
A: The best time to plant Stachys Eremicola is in the spring or fall, when the temperatures are cooler. - Q: Can Stachys Eremicola be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Stachys Eremicola can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight. - Q: How often should Stachys Eremicola be fertilized?
A: Stachys Eremicola should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Stachys albotomentosa
- Stachys ajugoides
- Stachys arvensis
- Stachys byzantina
- Stachys chamissonis
References
- “Stachys eremicola (Mojave hedge nettle).” California Native Plant Society, accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.cnps.org/gardening/plant-profiles/3703/stachys-eremicola
- “Stachys eremicola.” Las Pilitas Nursery, accessed August 11, 2021. https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/480–stachys-eremicola
- “Stachys eremicola.” USDA Plants Database, accessed August 11, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=STER2
