Desert Figwort

Scrophularia desertorum

Native to:
United States

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Scrophulariaceae
Genus:
Scrophularia
Species:
Scrophularia desertorum
USDA Symbol:
SCDE

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Forb/herb
Height:
120 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
apr,may,jun,jul
Bloom Colors:
red, brown

Wildlife Benefits

Bees:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
Butterflies & Moths:
★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Caterpillars:
★★☆☆☆ Recorded caterpillar host plant (HOSTS Database)

Host Plant for Caterpillars

Amblyptilia pica, Autographa labrosa, chalcedony midget (Elaphria chalcedonia), Clepsis fucana, omnivorous leaftier (Cnephasia longana), orange tortrix moth (Argyrotaenia citrana), orange tortrix moth (Argyrotaenia franciscana), Phymatopus hectoides, white-shouldered fruit moth (Ptycholoma peritana), Variable checkerspot (Euphydryas chalcedona)

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
bees, butterflies
Deer Resistant:
Yes

Soil Requirements

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