29 Species in Genus Sidalcea

My Love Affair with Sidalcea

The first time I saw a Sidalcea, I was hiking through a meadow in the California hills. The sun was shining, the birds were singing, and the wildflowers were in full bloom. Among the sea of yellow and orange, I noticed a delicate pink flower that I had never seen before. I stopped to take a closer look, and I was immediately captivated. The flower was so simple and elegant, with its five petals and delicate stamen. I learned later that it was a Sidalcea, a member of the mallow family.

Since that day, I have been fascinated by Sidalcea. I have grown them in my garden, and I have even traveled to see them in their native habitat. I am always amazed by their beauty and diversity.

What is Sidalcea?

Sidalcea is a genus of about 30 species of flowering plants in the mallow family. They are native to western North America, where they can be found in a variety of habitats, from meadows and prairies to woodlands and mountains. Sidalcea are known for their beautiful flowers, which come in a variety of colors, including pink, purple, white, and red. They are also relatively easy to grow, which makes them a popular choice for gardeners.

Why I Love Sidalcea

There are many reasons why I love Sidalcea. First, they are simply beautiful. Their flowers are delicate and elegant, and they come in a wide variety of colors. Second, they are relatively easy to grow. They are not fussy about soil or water, and they can tolerate a wide range of conditions. Third, they are a great choice for attracting pollinators to your garden. Bees and butterflies love Sidalcea flowers. Finally, I love the fact that Sidalcea is a native plant. By growing them in my garden, I am helping to support the local ecosystem.

Species in Sidalcea

There are about 29 species of Sidalcea. Some of the most common include:

  1. Sidalcea candida (white checkerbloom)
  2. Sidalcea malviflora (checkerbloom)
  3. Sidalcea oregana (Oregon checkerbloom)
  4. Sidalcea glaucescens (waxy checkerbloom)
  5. Sidalcea hirsuta (hairy checkerbloom)
  6. Sidalcea pedata (bird-footed checkerbloom)
  7. Sidalcea campestris (meadow checkermallow)
  8. Sidalcea asprella (rough checkermallow)
  9. Sidalcea covillei (Owens Valley sidalcea)
  10. Sidalcea diploscypha (fringed checkerbloom)
  11. Sidalcea cusickii (Cusick’s checkermallow)
  12. Sidalcea gigantea (giant checkermallow)
  13. Sidalcea hickmanii (Hickman’s checkerbloom)
  14. Sidalcea multifida (cut-leaved checkerbloom)
  15. Sidalcea nelsoniana (Nelson’s checkermallow)
  16. Sidalcea neomexicana (New Mexico checkerbloom)
  17. Sidalcea ranunculacea (buttercup checkerbloom)
  18. Sidalcea reptans (creeping checkerbloom)
  19. Sidalcea calycosa M.E.Jones
  20. Sidalcea celata (Jeps.) S.R.Hill
  21. Sidalcea hartwegii A.Gray ex Benth.
  22. Sidalcea hendersonii S.Watson
  23. Sidalcea hirtipes C.L.Hitchc.
  24. Sidalcea keckii Wiggins
  25. Sidalcea malachroides (Hook. & Arn.) A.Gray
  26. Sidalcea robusta A.Heller
  27. Sidalcea setosa C.L.Hitchc.
  28. Sidalcea sparsifolia (C.L.Hitchc.) S.R.Hill
  29. Sidalcea stipularis J.T.Howell & G.H.True

Growing Sidalcea

Sidalcea are relatively easy to grow. They prefer full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. They are drought tolerant, but they will bloom best with regular watering. Sidalcea can be propagated from seed or by division.

Sidalcea in the Garden

Sidalcea are a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of garden settings. They are a great choice for borders, meadows, and wildflower gardens. They can also be used in containers. Sidalcea are a good companion plant for other native plants, such as California poppies, lupines, and penstemons.

Sidalcea and Pollinators

Sidalcea are a great choice for attracting pollinators to your garden. Bees and butterflies love Sidalcea flowers.

Sidalcea as a Native Plant

Sidalcea is a native plant to western North America. By growing them in my garden, I am helping to support the local ecosystem.

Conclusion

I encourage you to try growing Sidalcea in your garden. They are a beautiful and easy-to-grow plant that will bring you years of enjoyment.

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