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Description
Trichostema Suffrutescens, also known as Blue Curls, is a native plant in California and Arizona. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. This plant is characterized by its blue-violet flowers that bloom from June to October. Its leaves are gray-green, narrow, and aromatic. The Blue Curls plant can be used for ornamental purposes in gardens, but it is also used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Trichostema |
Appearance
Trichostema Suffrutescens is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2-3 feet wide. It has narrow, gray-green leaves that are 1-2 inches long. The leaves are aromatic and have a slightly rough texture. The Blue Curls plant is characterized by its blue-violet flowers that bloom from June to October. The flowers are tubular, about ½ inch long, and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. The plant’s stem is woody and multi-branched. It has a reddish-brown color and can be slightly hairy.
Care Guide
Trichostema Suffrutescens is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires moderate watering, fertilization, and soil. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a variety of soil types. However, it is important to note that this plant is not frost tolerant, so it is best to grow it in hardiness zones 9-11. Below are some tips on how to care for the Blue Curls plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Blue Curls plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: The Blue Curls plant is not frost tolerant and should be grown in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Trichostema Suffrutescens is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it is important to keep an eye out for the following:
- Aphids: Aphids can be a problem for the Blue Curls plant, causing yellowing and curling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Root Rot: Root rot can occur if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Trichostema Suffrutescens is native to California and Arizona and can be found growing in dry, rocky areas, and along the coast. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate a variety of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils. The Blue Curls plant is an important part of the native plant community and provides habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Trichostema Suffrutescens drought tolerant?
A: Yes, the Blue Curls plant is relatively drought tolerant once established.
Q: Can I grow Trichostema Suffrutescens in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the Blue Curls plant in a container as long as it has enough space and drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Trichostema Suffrutescens?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Trichostema Suffrutescens?
A: The best time to plant the Blue Curls plant is in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Trichostema Lanatum: Also known as Woolly Bluecurls, this perennial herb is native to California and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has purple-blue flowers that bloom from July to October.
- Trichostema Dichotomum: Also known as Forked Bluecurls, this perennial herb is native to California and can grow up to 2 feet tall. It has blue-violet flowers that bloom from June to September.
- Trichostema Arizonicum: Also known as Arizona Bluecurls, this perennial herb is native to Arizona and can grow up to 1.5 feet tall. It has blue-violet flowers that bloom from June to September.
References
- Dave’s Garden. (n.d.). Trichostema suffrutescens. Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/768/
- Las Pilitas Nursery. (n.d.). Trichostema suffrutescens (Blue Curls). Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://www.laspilitas.com/nature-of-california/plants/831–trichostema-suffrutescens
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Trichostema suffrutescens. Retrieved July 15, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=TRSU2
