Desert Unicorn-Plant

Proboscidea althaeifolia

Native to:
Mexico, Peru, United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Martyniaceae
Genus:
Proboscidea
Species:
Proboscidea althaeifolia
USDA Symbol:
PRAL4

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
60 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
jun,jul,aug,sep
Bloom Colors:
yellow, orange

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
6.0 - 8.0 (neutral to slightly alkaline)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
native to arid desert regions

Propagation & Germination

Stratification:
None required
Scarification:
Seed coat scarification required before sowing
Germination Time:
14–30 days
Notes:
Scarification of the hard seed coat improves germination. Seeds germinate best with warm temperatures.

The above propagation data sourced from Claude AI