Bigelow's bristlehead (Carphochaete bigelovii)

Also known as: Tucson Beehive

Carphochaete bigelovii, known as Bigelow's bristlehead, belongs to the sunflower family. This species is indigenous to northern Mexico, including regions like Coahuila, Chihuahua, Durango, and Sonora, as well as the southwestern United States, specifically Arizona, New Mexico, and western Texas.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Bigelow's bristlehead

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb, Shrub

Plant Height

30 cm to 3.5 m

Spread

Approximately 0.5 meters (1.5 feet)

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

Approximately 1 cm (0.39 inches)

Flower Color

Purple petals with a yellowish center

Images of Bigelow's bristlehead

Quickly Identify Bigelow's bristlehead

Carphochaete bigelovii can be identified by its erect stems, which can reach up to 1 meter in height. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, and the flowers are small with purple petals and a central disk that is often yellowish. Look for its distinctive flowering clusters that bloom in the late summer to fall.

Scientific Classification of Bigelow's bristlehead

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Bristlehead

Species

Bigelow's bristlehead

Planting and Growing of Bigelow's bristlehead

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

70-85℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Bigelow's bristlehead?

Carphochaete bigelovii prefers soil that dries out between waterings. Watering should thoroughly moisten the soil but avoid waterlogging. A good rule is to water until the excess drains from the bottom of the pot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Bigelow's bristlehead? ›

What should I do if my Bigelow's bristlehead is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Bigelow's bristlehead? ›

How to save an overwatered Bigelow's bristlehead? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Bigelow's bristlehead?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Carphochaete bigelovii requires a full sun environment, thriving with at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. This exposure encourages robust growth and abundant flowering, enhancing its visual appeal.

How much sunlight does Carphochaete bigelovii need? ›

What happens if it doesn't get enough light? ›

What are some solutions for providing ideal light? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Bigelow's bristlehead?

Ideal Temperature: 70 ~ 85℉

For Carphochaete bigelovii, maintaining a temperature between 70°F to 85°F is considered optimal for growth. This range allows the plant to photosynthesize efficiently while minimizing stress. Maintaining such temperatures ensures the plant's energy is directed towards growth and blooming, rather than temperature regulation. It's important to note that significant deviations from this range, even if temporary, can adversely affect the plant's vitality.

What Soil is Best for Bigelow's bristlehead?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Carphochaete bigelovii thrives in well-draining soil. Good drainage prevents waterlogged roots, which can lead to root rot. Ensuring your soil has excellent drainage will maintain root health and promote vigorous growth. While not overly demanding, Carphochaete bigelovii enjoys a soil rich in organic matter. This enriches the soil structure, boosting microbial activity that breaks down nutrients for easier plant absorption. This plant prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH balance. A stable pH environment ensures optimal nutrient availability and absorption, promoting overall plant health and growth.

How to Fertilize Bigelow's bristlehead?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Carphochaete bigelovii, the fertilizer amount should be modest. When using liquid fertilizers, a general guideline is to apply a balanced 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. Approximately 1 tablespoon (15 mL) per gallon of water is sufficient during the growing season. When using slow-release fertilizers, opt for a balanced formula such as 14-14-14, applying about one teaspoon per plant annually.

How to Prune Bigelow's bristlehead?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by inspecting the plant for any dead, damaged, or diseased stems. Cut these back to the base. Trim back overgrown stems to maintain shape, cutting just above a leaf node for optimal growth. Remove any spent blooms to encourage new flowering. The ideal time to prune is in the early morning or late afternoon when the plant is not stressed by midday heat. This allows for better recovery and reduces dehydration. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Bigelow's bristlehead plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

First, fill the seed tray with seed-starting mix and evenly sprinkle the seeds over the soil surface. Lightly press the seeds into the soil and cover them with a thin layer of the mix. Mist the surface with water to keep it moist during germination.

Select healthy, non-flowering stems from the parent plant. Using a clean, sharp knife, cut 4-6 inch sections just below a node. Remove the lower leaves to reduce moisture loss and dip the cut end in rooting hormone.

Prepare pots with a well-draining potting mix. Insert the cuttings into the soil, ensuring at least two nodes are buried. Firm the soil around the cuttings and water lightly. Keep the pots in indirect light and maintain humidity using a plastic cover.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Bigelow's bristlehead plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Carphochaete bigelovii should be repotted when you notice roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant seems to have stunted growth. Another sign is when the soil dries out too quickly after watering, indicating that the roots have taken up most of the pot space.

Selecting the right pot for Carphochaete bigelovii is crucial. Choose a pot that is about one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has adequate drainage holes. A slightly larger pot provides room for root growth, preventing water from sitting in the pot and causing root rot.

For soil selection, opt for a well-draining cactus mix to mimic the plant's natural habitat. This soil type prevents water retention, reducing the risk of root rot and ensuring the plant has the right environment to thrive and not over-saturate after watering.