New Mexico Unicorn-Plant
Proboscidea spicata
- Native to:
- Mexico, United States
iNaturalist: © juanloredo (iNaturalist #186780724)
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Martyniaceae
- Genus:
- Proboscidea
- Species:
- Proboscidea spicata
- USDA Symbol:
- PRSP3
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Annual
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 60 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- High
- Bloom Months:
- jun,jul,aug,sep
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow, orange, red
Wildlife Benefits
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- birds, butterflies
- 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 and semi-arid regions
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Scarification:
- Seed coat scarification required before sowing
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds require scarification (nicking or sanding) followed by cold stratification for 30-60 days to break dormancy.