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Description
Trichostema Dichotomum, commonly known as blue curls, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. The plant can grow up to 2.5 feet tall and has a bushy appearance with thin, branching stems. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a grayish-green color. The plant produces small flowers that are light blue or lavender in color and have a distinctive curling shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Trichostema |
Appearance
Trichostema Dichotomum has a unique appearance with thin, branching stems that can grow up to 2.5 feet tall. The leaves are lance-shaped and have a grayish-green color, giving the plant a silvery appearance. The plant produces small, light blue or lavender flowers that have a distinctive curling shape, giving the plant its common name, blue curls. The flowers bloom from June to September and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Trichostema Dichotomum is a relatively low maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. However, it is important to water the plant deeply when the soil is dry to the touch. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth. Trichostema Dichotomum is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trichostema Dichotomum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too moist. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil has adequate drainage. The plant can also be affected by spider mites and whiteflies, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Trichostema Dichotomum is native to the southwestern United States and parts of Mexico. The plant is commonly found in dry, rocky areas such as hillsides, canyons, and desert washes. It is also found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and abandoned fields. The plant is an important component of the native plant communities in its range and provides food and habitat for wildlife such as bees, butterflies, and birds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trichostema Dichotomum a good plant for a xeriscape garden?
A: Yes, Trichostema Dichotomum is a great choice for a xeriscape garden because it is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Q: Can Trichostema Dichotomum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Trichostema Dichotomum can be grown in containers as long as the container has adequate drainage and the plant receives full sun exposure.
Q: How do you propagate Trichostema Dichotomum?
A: Trichostema Dichotomum can be propagated by seed or by taking stem cuttings in the spring or fall. Seeds should be sown in the fall or early spring.
Q: Are there any cultivars of Trichostema Dichotomum?
A: Yes, there are several cultivars of Trichostema Dichotomum, including ‘Blue Blazes’, which has larger flowers than the species, and ‘Oceanside’, which has dark blue flowers.
Related Plants
- Trichostema Arizonicum
- Trichostema Austromontanum
- Trichostema Lanatum
- Trichostema Lineare
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Trichostema dichotomum. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://www.calscape.org/Trichostema-dichotomum-()
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Trichostema Dichotomum. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TRDI3
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). PLANTS Profile for Trichostema Dichotomum. Retrieved June 21, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TRDI3
