American tarwort (Flourensia cernua)

American tarwort

Also known as: Tarbush

American tarwort (Flourensia cernua) is a perennial deciduous shrub that can grow from 30 to 91 cm tall and spread to 4 m wide. It blooms in spring with yellow flowers. Also known as tarbush. Spreads and reproduces by underground roots. Thrives in full sun and cannot tolerate shade.

Scientific classification

Species

American tarwort (Flourensia cernua)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Summer, Fall

Bloom Time

2 m

Plant Height

Yellow

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of American tarwort

Attributes of American tarwort

Growth Rate

In the summer, american tarwort exhibits a slow growth rate. This leisurely pace tends to result in a gradual increase in foliage density and height. Flower production is often limited during this period, with the plant channeling energy into resilience and survival. Despite this slow progress, american tarwort maintains its green vibrancy through the warm months. Incidentally, american tarwort's slower summer growth might be a protective adaptation to thrive in its natural semi-arid habitats.

Distribution of American tarwort

Distribution Map

American tarwort is indigenous to North America, predominantly thriving in arid and semi-arid regions. Its presence in native habitats showcases a remarkable adaptation to these climates. While not widely introduced elsewhere, american tarwort maintains a stable, localized distribution within its natural range.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for American tarwort

Every 2-3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: American tarwort thrives in arid environments with excellent drought tolerance, requiring watering only every 2-3 weeks. It flourishes outdoors, preferring dry soil conditions, and is ideal for xeriscaping due to its adaptability to less fertile soils.

Fertilize: American tarwort thrives with monthly fertilization during the growing season, utilizing balanced and high-nitrogen fertilizers. Adjust feeding frequency in fall and winter. Careful dosing prevents root burn, ensuring american tarwort receives necessary nutrients for healthy growth and flowering.

Pruning: American tarwort thrives with early spring pruning, removing up to one-third of its growth to encourage robust new stems and blooms. This practice enhances air circulation, minimizes disease risk, and shapes the plant, ultimately promoting its health and visual appeal.

Propagation: American tarwort, found in arid southwestern U.S. and Mexico, prefers well-draining soil and full sun. This drought-resistant perennial propagates effectively from healthy cuttings treated with rooting hormone, planted in sandy soil to promote root growth while preventing oversaturation.

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Learn More About American tarwort

How to Transplant

How to Prune

How to Grow and Care

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