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Description
Thelypodium Integrifolium, commonly known as the Western mustard or the entire-leaf thelypody, is a flowering plant belonging to the Brassicaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in open spaces, including meadows, grasslands, and sagebrush. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide, producing clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers in the late spring or early summer. The fruit is a long, narrow, cylindrical pod that splits open when mature, releasing numerous small, black seeds.
Taxonomic Information
Domain | Eukaryota |
Kingdom | Plantae |
Phylum | Spermatophyta |
Class | Magnoliopsida |
Order | Brassicales |
Family | Brassicaceae |
Genus | Thelypodium |
Appearance
Thelypodium Integrifolium has a basal rosette of leaves that are entire, meaning they have smooth edges, and are up to 12 inches long and 3 inches wide. The stem leaves are smaller, with smooth edges and a clasping base. The plant produces clusters of small, white to pinkish flowers that are about 1/4 inch wide, with four petals and six stamens. The fruit is a long, narrow, cylindrical pod that is about 3 inches long and 1/4 inch wide, containing numerous small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Thelypodium Integrifolium is easy to grow and maintain. Here are some tips for its care:
Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and mid-summer.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests and Diseases
Thelypodium Integrifolium is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To prevent these pests, keep the plant healthy and well-watered. In case of an infestation, treat the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Thelypodium Integrifolium is native to North America and can be found growing in open spaces, including meadows, grasslands, and sagebrush. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4 to 9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thelypodium Integrifolium a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Thelypodium Integrifolium is an easy plant to grow and maintain, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: When does Thelypodium Integrifolium bloom?
A: Thelypodium Integrifolium blooms in the late spring or early summer.
Q: Can Thelypodium Integrifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Thelypodium Integrifolium can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Thelypodium Integrifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Thelypodium Integrifolium attracts bees and butterflies with its small, white to pinkish flowers.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Thelypodium Integrifolium:
- Thelypodium milleflorum
- Thelypodium laciniatum
- Thelypodium stenopetalum
- Thelypodium sagittatum
References
- USDA Plants Database: Thelypodium Integrifolium
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Thelypodium Integrifolium
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Thelypodium Integrifolium