Mentzelia pumila
Mentzelia pumila
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Pl. 5396 — Mentzelia pumila
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IOverview
Overview
Mentzelia pumila, commonly known as sticky phlox, is a perennial forb found in the native ranges of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible seeds, Mentzelia pumila is a valuable resource for those interested in foraging. One distinctive feature of this plant is its sticky nature, which helps prevent seed dispersal by sticking to passing animals and clothing.
Quick answers
What is Mentzelia pumila?
Mentzelia pumila, commonly known as sticky phlox, is a perennial forb found in the native ranges of Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay).
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mentzelia pumila thrives in full sun and prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is drought-tolerant but will also grow in moist conditions. This perennial plant is hardy in temperate regions and native to Colorado, Montana, and Wyoming. For best results, sow seeds directly where they are to grow, as this plant does not transplant well. Skip any additional fertilizers or amendments unless the soil is particularly poor.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Perennial
Habit
Forb/herb
For first-time growers
How to grow Mentzelia pumila for the first time
8steps
Start with basic care for Mentzelia pumila, focusing on sun and soil.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5 for best growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after danger of frost is past, or start indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to avoid rotting the roots. Keep soil moist but not waterlogged.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and regular watering during dry spells, especially when seedlings are young.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead flowers to encourage more blooms and maintain plant shape. Avoid harvesting seeds for now.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting sun exposure.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Seed
Edible uses: The seeds of Mentzelia pumila are edible and can be harvested and prepared in various ways. They are often roasted or ground into a flour to add texture and nutrition to baked goods. Skip the raw consumption as the seeds may have an unpleasant taste when eaten unprocessed.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
3 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
3 native · 0 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 3 native
Broader regions
native:Colorado, Montana, Wyoming
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 53968618-ae45-47c1-81d9-cb348c5c2b88
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