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Description
Xylorhiza Orcuttii is a rare and endangered perennial herbaceous plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also known as the Orcutt’s woody-aster, and it is endemic to California, United States. The plant grows up to 30 to 60 centimeters in height and spreads up to 45 centimeters in diameter. It has woody stems, and its leaves are narrow, linear, and covered with fine hairs. Its flowers are yellow and bloom from March to June.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Xylorhiza |
Appearance
Xylorhiza Orcuttii has narrow, linear leaves that are 2 to 5 centimeters long and covered with fine hairs. Its stems are woody and gray-brown in color. Its flowers are yellow and have a diameter of 2 to 3 centimeters. The plant blooms from March to June and produces seeds that are dispersed by wind or animals. Xylorhiza Orcuttii is a drought-tolerant plant that can survive in harsh desert conditions.
Care Guide
Xylorhiza Orcuttii requires well-draining soil and full sunlight. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy, rocky, and clay soils. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and does not require frequent watering. However, it should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary for Xylorhiza Orcuttii. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Xylorhiza Orcuttii is susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly draining soil. It can also be affected by leaf spot and powdery mildew. Insects such as aphids, spider mites, and thrips can infest the plant. Regular inspection and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can prevent pest infestations.
Habitat
Xylorhiza Orcuttii is endemic to California, United States, and is found in the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. It grows in rocky, sandy, and gravelly soils in desert washes, slopes, and canyons. The plant is adapted to dry conditions and can survive in areas with low rainfall and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q1. Is Xylorhiza Orcuttii a threatened species?
A1. Yes, Xylorhiza Orcuttii is a rare and endangered species that is threatened by habitat loss and human disturbance.
Q2. What is the blooming period of Xylorhiza Orcuttii?
A2. Xylorhiza Orcuttii blooms from March to June.
Q3. What are the common pests that affect Xylorhiza Orcuttii?
A3. Aphids, spider mites, and thrips are common pests that can infest Xylorhiza Orcuttii.
Q4. What is the hardiness zone of Xylorhiza Orcuttii?
A4. Xylorhiza Orcuttii is hardy to USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Xylorhiza cognata
- Xylorhiza orcuttii var. orcuttii
- Xylorhiza tortifolia
References
- California Native Plant Society. (2021). Xylorhiza Orcuttii. Retrieved from https://www.cnps.org/give/plant-info/xylorhiza-orcuttii
- NatureServe. (2021). Xylorhiza Orcuttii. Retrieved from https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.139304/Xylorhiza_orcuttii
- United States Department of Agriculture. (2021). Xylorhiza Orcuttii. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=XYOR2
