Mentzelia paradoxensis Plant Care

Mentzelia paradoxensis (Mentzelia paradoxensis) belongs to the Loasaceae family within the Mentzelia genus. Mentzelia paradoxensis is native to western Colorado in the Paradox and Gypsum valleys.

Mentzelia paradoxensis displays an upright, branching growth habit, reaching up to 2 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Mentzelia paradoxensis produces bright yellow, cup-shaped flowers.

Leaf size: approximately 3 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Mentzelia paradoxensis every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Mentzelia paradoxensis thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Mentzelia paradoxensis tolerates temperatures of 50–85°F. Mentzelia paradoxensis prefers humidity levels of 30–60%.

Well-draining sandy soil with some organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Mentzelia paradoxensis to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Mentzelia paradoxensis every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy soil with some organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Mentzelia paradoxensis is suited to USDA Zone 12a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Mentzelia paradoxensis can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 2 ft (1 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Mentzelia paradoxensis while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Mentzelia paradoxensis is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 12). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Mentzelia paradoxensis can be propagated through seeds. Similar propagation techniques also apply to showy stickleaf plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Mentzelia paradoxensis is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Mentzelia paradoxensis grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Mentzelia paradoxensis is native to western Colorado in the Paradox and Gypsum valleys. In cooler regions, grow Mentzelia paradoxensis as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.