Fanmustard: A Rare Gem for Desert Native Plant Gardens
If you’re on the hunt for truly unique native plants that’ll make your neighbors do a double-take, let me introduce you to fanmustard (Nerisyrenia). This little-known perennial herb might not be the flashiest plant in the garden center, but it’s got some serious native plant street cred that makes it worth considering for the right garden.
What Exactly is Fanmustard?
Fanmustard belongs to the mustard family and is what botanists call a forb – basically, it’s a soft-stemmed perennial plant that doesn’t get woody like shrubs or trees. Think of it as the herbaceous cousin of more famous mustard family members like sweet alyssum or wallflowers, but with a decidedly southwestern personality.
This native beauty is a true American original, indigenous to the lower 48 states and specifically calling New Mexico and Texas home. It’s what we native plant enthusiasts like to call a local specialty – a plant that’s perfectly adapted to its specific corner of the world.
Where Does Fanmustard Grow?
Fanmustard has a pretty exclusive zip code, naturally occurring only in New Mexico and Texas. This limited distribution makes it a real treasure for gardeners in these states who want to grow plants that are truly from here.
Should You Plant Fanmustard in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting (and a bit challenging). Fanmustard is definitely on the advanced gardener list rather than the beginner-friendly category. Here’s why you might want to consider it:
- Native plant authenticity: If you’re in its native range, you’re supporting truly local biodiversity
- Unique garden addition: Your garden will have something most others don’t
- Desert adaptation: Likely excellent for water-wise landscaping
- Perennial nature: Once established, it should return year after year
However, there are some honest challenges to consider:
- Limited availability: You won’t find this at your typical garden center
- Specialized needs: As a desert native, it probably has very specific growing requirements
- Unknown garden performance: There’s limited information about how it behaves in cultivation
Growing Conditions and Care
Since fanmustard is native to the desert regions of New Mexico and Texas, we can make some educated guesses about what it needs to thrive:
Soil: Likely prefers well-draining, sandy or gravelly soils typical of desert environments. Heavy clay or constantly moist soils would probably spell disaster for this plant.
Water: As a desert native, fanmustard probably follows the drought-tolerant once established rule. It likely needs regular water to get started but should be quite water-wise once its roots are established.
Sun: Most desert natives love full sun, so plan on giving fanmustard a bright, sunny spot in your garden.
Climate: Being native to New Mexico and Texas suggests it can handle hot summers and likely some cold tolerance, though specific hardiness zone information isn’t readily available.
Design Ideas and Garden Style
Fanmustard would be perfect for:
- Native plant gardens: Especially those focused on local or regional species
- Xeriscapes: Water-wise landscapes that celebrate desert beauty
- Rock gardens: Where its specialized growing needs can be better met
- Naturalized areas: Spaces designed to mimic natural desert habitats
The Reality Check
Let’s be honest – fanmustard isn’t going to be the easiest plant to find or grow. It’s more of a plant collector’s plant than a mainstream garden staple. If you’re determined to try it, your best bet is connecting with native plant societies in New Mexico or Texas, or specialty nurseries that focus on rare native species.
If you love the idea of mustard family plants but want something more readily available, consider other native alternatives like desert mustard species that might be easier to source and grow.
Final Thoughts
Fanmustard represents the kind of plant that makes native gardening so fascinating – there are always new species to discover and explore. While it might not be the right choice for every gardener, for those in its native range who love a challenge and want to grow something truly special, fanmustard could be a rewarding addition to the right garden.
Just remember: with rare or uncommon plants like this, always source responsibly from reputable nurseries that propagate their own plants rather than collecting from wild populations. Our native plants are treasures worth protecting for future generations to enjoy.
