Thymophylla, Genus, pentachaeta, Species,
- Genus & species
Parralena
Southwestern United States and Mexico
Overview
Thymophylla pentachaeta is a low, mounding perennial reaching 4-10 inches (10-25 cm) tall and 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) wide, forming a tufted cushion of wiry, branching stems. The leaves are finely divided into narrow, thread-like segments tipped with small bristles, and they are dotted with aromatic oil glands that scent the foliage when brushed. From spring through fall, and nearly year-round in mild climates, the plant carries bright yellow daisy-like flower heads about 0.5 inch (12 mm) across on slender stalks held above the foliage. The seed is a small narrow achene with a bristly crown. It grows on dry, open, gravelly or limestone ground, desert flats, and grassland in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The species tolerates intense heat and drought and needs sharp drainage; it rots in wet, heavy soils and is short-lived where summers stay humid. The tiny stature limits its impact except in groups.
Native Range
Thymophylla pentachaeta is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, including Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, and adjacent states. It grows on dry, gravelly or limestone soils, desert flats, plains, and open grassland.Suggested Uses
Used in rock gardens, gravel gardens, dry borders, and containers in hot, sunny sites. It suits xeriscapes and lean soils where larger plants struggle. Spaced 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) apart in groups or as edging.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height4" - 10"
Width/Spread8" - 1'
Bloom Information
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Grow in full sun in gritty, sharply drained, sandy or rocky soil, including alkaline and limestone ground. This species tolerates intense heat and drought and needs little water once established. Wet, heavy, or poorly drained soil causes root and crown rot. No fertilizer is needed, and lean soil keeps the habit tight. It is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and may be short-lived in humid summer climates. Light shearing after a bloom flush keeps it compact and prompts more flowers.Pruning
Shear lightly after each main bloom flush to keep the cushion dense and to renew flowering. Cut back leggy or winter-damaged stems in late winter. Plants are short-lived and may be replaced every few years.Pruning Schedule
Prune: February
winter
Container Growing
Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 1 gallons
