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Description
Trichostema Lanatum, commonly known as Fuzzy Blue Curls, is a perennial plant native to California, USA. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is a popular garden plant. The plant produces small bluish-purple flowers that are arranged in clusters on top of the stem. The flowers have a unique and delightful fragrance that attracts bees and butterflies. The leaves of the plant are narrow, hairy, and range from 1-3 inches in length.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Trichostema |
Appearance
Fuzzy Blue Curls can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant has a bushy growth habit and produces numerous stems that are covered in fine hairs. The flowers bloom from June to September and are densely packed on top of each stem. Each flower is about 1/4 inch long and has a tubular shape with two lips. The upper lip has two lobes, while the lower lip has three. The leaves of the plant are narrow, hairy, and range from 1-3 inches in length.
Care Guide
Water
Fuzzy Blue Curls prefer well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter.
Fertilization
Fuzzy Blue Curls do not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Fuzzy Blue Curls prefer well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight
Fuzzy Blue Curls require full sun to partial shade to thrive. The plant can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Fuzzy Blue Curls can grow in USDA Hardiness Zones 9-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fuzzy Blue Curls are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Fuzzy Blue Curls are native to California and can be found growing in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, and oak woodland habitats. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can grow in sunny to partially shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fuzzy Blue Curls a good plant for container gardening?
A: Yes, Fuzzy Blue Curls can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I prune Fuzzy Blue Curls?
A: Prune Fuzzy Blue Curls in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches. You can also prune the plant after it has finished flowering to encourage bushier growth.
Q: Can Fuzzy Blue Curls be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Fuzzy Blue Curls can be propagated from cuttings taken in the late spring or early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil.
Q: Are Fuzzy Blue Curls deer resistant?
A: Fuzzy Blue Curls are considered deer resistant, but not entirely deer proof. If deer are a problem in your area, consider planting Fuzzy Blue Curls in a location that is less accessible to deer.
Related Plants
- Trichostema Arizonicum
- Trichostema Dichotomum
- Trichostema Lanatum var. Compactum
- Trichostema Laxum
- Trichostema Michellianum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/trichostema_lanatum.shtml
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-calrecnum=8196
- https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/trichostema/trichostema-lanatum
