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Description
Boltonia Diffusa, commonly known as White Doll’s Daisy or False Aster, is a herbaceous perennial plant belonging to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to North America and can be found growing in the eastern and central regions of the United States, from Maine to Florida and westward to Texas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Boltonia |
| Species | Boltonia Diffusa |
Appearance
Boltonia Diffusa can grow up to 4 feet tall and 2 feet wide with a mounding habit. The leaves are lance-shaped, green, and alternate on the stem. The flowers are white, small, and daisy-like, blooming from late summer to early fall. The plant produces numerous flowers, creating a dense and showy display. The root system is fibrous and shallow.
Care Guide
Boltonia Diffusa is an easy plant to care for and can be grown in a variety of soil types as long as they are well-drained. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil. Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve soil fertility and drainage.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade. The plant will produce more flowers in full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Boltonia Diffusa is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Boltonia Diffusa is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant is planted in well-drained soil and avoid overhead watering. Insect pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Boltonia Diffusa is commonly found growing in wet meadows, prairies, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade. This plant is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central regions of the United States, from Maine to Florida and westward to Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Boltonia Diffusa a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Boltonia Diffusa is a great plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Boltonia Diffusa be grown in containers?
A: It is possible to grow Boltonia Diffusa in containers, but it will require a large container and consistent watering.
Q: Is Boltonia Diffusa deer resistant?
A: Yes, Boltonia Diffusa is deer resistant.
Q: Can Boltonia Diffusa be divided?
A: Yes, Boltonia Diffusa can be divided in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Boltonia asteroides
- Boltonia latisquama
- Boltonia decurrens
- Boltonia hirsuta
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Boltonia diffusa. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=m350
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension. (n.d.). White Doll’s Daisy. Retrieved from https://wimastergardener.org/article/white-dolls-daisy-boltonia-diffusa/
- Bonnie Plants. (n.d.). Boltonia. Retrieved from https://bonnieplants.com/growing/growing-boltonia/
