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Description
Tiquilia Canescens, commonly known as Spiny Tiquilia, is a small perennial plant that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in arid and semi-arid regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Tiquilia |
Appearance
The Spiny Tiquilia is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 5-15cm. Its leaves are small, hairy, and grayish-green in color, and its flowers are bright pink or purple, with five petals that form a funnel shape. The plant has a spiny texture, with short, sharp thorns on its stems and leaves.
Care Guide
The Spiny Tiquilia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Spiny Tiquilia prefers well-draining, sandy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Spiny Tiquilia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Spiny Tiquilia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites and root rot if overwatered. To prevent these issues, avoid overwatering and keep the plant in a well-ventilated area.
Habitat
The Spiny Tiquilia is commonly found in desert landscapes, rocky slopes, and sandy washes in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Spiny Tiquilia a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, the Spiny Tiquilia is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive long periods without water.
Q: Can the Spiny Tiquilia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Spiny Tiquilia can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage and are filled with well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Spiny Tiquilia?
A: Fertilize the Spiny Tiquilia once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does the Spiny Tiquilia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Spiny Tiquilia attracts bees and butterflies with its bright pink or purple flowers.
Related Plants
- Tiquilia plicata
- Tiquilia palmeri
- Tiquilia canescens var. canescens
- Tiquilia nuttallii
References
- “Tiquilia Canescens.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TICA3.
- “Tiquilia Canescens.” Arizona State University, Center for Digital Antiquity, www.soroherbaria.org/sums/arizona/collections/individual/index.php?occid=210568.
- Arizona Native Plant Society, www.aznps.com/plant/tiquilia-canescens/.
