Yellowflower tarweed (Holocarpha virgata)

Yellowflower tarweed

Also known as: Graceful tarplant

Yellowflower tarweed (Holocarpha virgata) is an annual herbaceous flowering plant whose foliage smells like turpentine. The entire plant is sticky to the touch. It attracts bees, birds, and small mammals but as it matures, the unpleasant scent repels livestock and deer. Also called virgate tarweed or pit gland tarweed. It blooms yellow flowers from spring to fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Yellowflower tarweed (Holocarpha virgata)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Images of Yellowflower tarweed

Care Guide for Yellowflower tarweed

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Water: Yellowflower tarweed thrives in arid conditions with drought tolerance, requiring only weekly watering. It relies on deep roots to access moisture from sporadic rainfall, efficiently adapting its growth cycle to seasonal availability in dry climates.

Fertilize: Fertilizing yellowflower tarweed with balanced nutrition during the growing season enhances growth and flowering. Use high nitrogen fertilizers sparingly in early spring, applying 1/4 to 1/2 of the recommended dose bi-monthly. Adjust frequency in dormancy, and always water thoroughly after fertilizing to prevent root burn.

Pruning: Yellowflower tarweed thrives with light pruning in early to late spring to enhance health and blooming. Remove dead stems and shape the plant for airflow and sunlight. Clean, sharp tools are essential to prevent disease and ensure clean cuts, supporting easier maintenance.

Propagation: Native to Californian grasslands, yellowflower tarweed prefers well-drained soils and full sun. Seeds should be sown superficially for light-dependent germination. Seedlings need high light and moderate moisture. Minimize root disturbance during handling and monitor for typical Asteraceae family pests.

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