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Description
Tetradymia Stenolepis, commonly known as the desert spinebrush or slimleaf brittlebush, is a perennial shrub native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its gray-green leaves, yellow flowers, and sharp spines. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 5 feet wide, making it an excellent option for landscaping and erosion control in arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tetradymia |
Appearance
The Tetradymia Stenolepis plant has gray-green leaves that are narrow and elongated, with a length of about 1 inch and a width of about 0.1 inch. The leaves are covered with fine hairs that give them a fuzzy appearance. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and fall. The flowers are about 0.5 inch in diameter and are arranged in clusters at the ends of stems. The plant also has sharp spines that grow from the stems and branches, which can make it difficult to handle without protection.
Care Guide
Tetradymia Stenolepis is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in dry, sandy soil and full sun. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: Water the plant once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
Soil: The plant prefers well-draining sandy soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive.
Hardiness Zones: Tetradymia Stenolepis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tetradymia Stenolepis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. In addition, the plant may develop root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Tetradymia Stenolepis is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid regions such as deserts, canyons, and rocky slopes. The plant is adapted to hot, dry conditions and can survive in areas with little rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tetradymia Stenolepis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: Does Tetradymia Stenolepis attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant’s yellow flowers attract bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can Tetradymia Stenolepis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Is Tetradymia Stenolepis poisonous to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Tetradymia Stenolepis is toxic to pets, but it is recommended to keep pets away from the plant’s sharp spines.
Related Plants
- Tetradymia axillaris
- Tetradymia canescens
- Tetradymia comosa
- Tetradymia glabrata
- Tetradymia spinosa
References
- “Tetradymia stenolepis.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:251449-1
- “Tetradymia stenolepis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TEST2
- “Tetradymia stenolepis.” Arizona State University. Accessed 14 April 2021. https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapaiplants/SpeciesDetailForb.php?genus=Tetradymia&species=stenolepis
