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Description
Streptanthus Carinatus, commonly known as the bird’s beak, is a flowering plant native to California. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is an annual herb that can grow up to 2 feet tall. It produces clusters of bright yellow flowers with purple or maroon markings on the petals. The plant blooms from March to June and has a unique, sweet fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Streptanthus |
Appearance
The bird’s beak has a unique appearance with its bright yellow flowers and maroon markings on the petals. The plant has slender stems that can grow up to 2 feet tall. Its leaves are narrow and can be up to 4 inches long. The plant produces seed pods that resemble a bird’s beak, hence the name.
Care Guide
Streptanthus Carinatus is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your bird’s beak:
- Water: The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: The plant doesn’t require much fertilizer. You can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The bird’s beak prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some afternoon shade in hotter climates.
- Hardiness Zones: The bird’s beak is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The bird’s beak is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The bird’s beak is native to California and can be found growing in open woodlands, grasslands, and chaparral habitats. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the blooming season of the bird’s beak?
A: The bird’s beak blooms from March to June.
Q: What is the fragrance of the bird’s beak?
A: The plant has a unique, sweet fragrance.
Q: What pests can affect the bird’s beak?
A: The bird’s beak can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the bird’s beak?
A: The bird’s beak is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Related Plants
- Streptanthus Batrachopus
- Streptanthus Bernardinus
- Streptanthus Cordatus
- Streptanthus Farnsworthianus
References
- “Streptanthus carinatus.” Calflora: Information on California plants for education, research and conservation. https://www.calflora.org/entry/plantdetail.html?crn=401
- “Streptanthus carinatus.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=STCA10
- “Streptanthus carinatus.” The Jepson Herbarium. https://ucjeps.berkeley.edu/eflora/eflora_display.php?tid=86649
