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Description
Stanleya Pinnata, commonly known as desert princesplume or prince’s plume, is a species of flowering plant in the mustard family. It is native to the western United States and northern Mexico, and can be found in desert and semi-desert regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Stanleya |
Appearance
Stanleya Pinnata is a perennial herb that can grow up to 4 feet tall. It has a woody base with multiple stems that are covered in fine, gray-green hairs. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 12 inches long. The flowers are bright yellow and grow in long, showy spikes that can reach up to 2 feet in length. The plant blooms from April to June.
Care Guide
Stanleya Pinnata is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to ensure its optimal growth:
- Water: The plant is drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Amend heavy clay soils with sand or perlite to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive. Ensure that it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: Stanleya Pinnata is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Stanleya Pinnata is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to aphids and flea beetles. Diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew can occur if the plant is overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. To prevent these issues, ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Stanleya Pinnata is native to the western United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in desert and semi-desert regions, and is often found growing in sandy or gravelly soils near washes and drainages.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Stanleya Pinnata a good plant for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, Stanleya Pinnata is an excellent plant for xeriscaping due to its drought-resistant nature.
Q: Can Stanleya Pinnata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Stanleya Pinnata can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s mature size.
Q: Does Stanleya Pinnata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Stanleya Pinnata is a pollinator-friendly plant that attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Stanleya Pinnata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Stanleya Pinnata can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Stanleya Montana
- Stanleya Elata
- Stanleya Viridiflora
References
- “Stanleya pinnata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279952&isprofile=0&basic=stanleya%20pinnata
- “Desert princesplume.” Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum. https://www.desertmuseum.org/kids/oz/long-fact-sheets/Desert%20princesplume.php
- “Prince’s plume.” Utah State University Extension. https://extension.usu.edu/rangeplants/forbsherbaceous/princesplume
