Mojave Pincushion
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(Chaenactis xantiana)
Mojave Pincushion (Chaenactis xantiana)
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Jim Morefield
CC BY 4.0
Image By:
Jim Morefield
Recorded By:
Copyright:
CC BY 4.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Jim Morefield | License Type: CC BY 4.0 | License URL: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ | Rights Holder: Jim Morefield | Publisher: iNaturalist | Date Created: 2010-05-07T11:26-07:00 |
Summary
Chaenactis xantiana, commonly known as Mojave pincushion, is an annual herb native to arid desert scrub and sandy washes in the Mojave and Great Basin Deserts, including regions of southeastern Oregon, Nevada, southern and eastern California, and northwestern Arizona. It typically grows up to 20 inches tall and thrives in sandy, well-drained soils. Mojave pincushion produces showy white flowers in capitula 1.2-2.4 inches in diameter, blooming from April to June, which attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Mojave pincushion is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to adapt to harsh desert conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens in arid climates. It is not commonly used in cultivation but can be an interesting addition to native plant gardens or naturalized areas. This plant requires minimal water once established and prefers full sun exposure. There are no popular garden cultivars of this species, and it is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it is not suitable for areas with heavy clay soils or poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Mojave pincushion is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to adapt to harsh desert conditions, making it a suitable choice for xeriscaping and rock gardens in arid climates. It is not commonly used in cultivation but can be an interesting addition to native plant gardens or naturalized areas. This plant requires minimal water once established and prefers full sun exposure. There are no popular garden cultivars of this species, and it is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it is not suitable for areas with heavy clay soils or poor drainage.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 1-2 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Pink, White
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer
- Leaf Retention:
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Drainage: Medium, Fast
Common Uses
Drought Tolerant, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Arid desert scrub and sandy washes in the Mojave and Great Basin Deserts
Other Names
Common Names: Xantus’ Pincushion, Desert Pincushion, Flesh-Color Pincushion, Xantus Chaenactis
Scientific Names: Chaenactis xantiana, Chaenactis floribunda, Chaenactis xantiana var. integrifolia, Chaenactis xantiana var. xantiana
GBIF Accepted Name: Chaenactis xantiana