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Description
Bracteantha Viscosa, commonly known as the Sticky Everlasting, is an Australian native plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 30cm in height and 60cm in width. The plant has a woody base with multiple stems and leaves that are covered in small hairs. Its flowers are small, yellow, and daisy-like, with papery bracts that cover the flower head.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Bracteantha |
Appearance
The Sticky Everlasting has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are small, narrow, and covered in tiny hairs that give them a soft, fuzzy texture. The flowers are yellow and small, with a diameter of about 2cm. They are clustered together in a flower head that is surrounded by papery bracts. The bracts are white or pink in color and have a translucent appearance that makes them look like delicate tissue paper.
Care Guide
To keep your Bracteantha Viscosa healthy and thriving, it’s important to follow these care guidelines:Water: The Sticky Everlasting prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: The Sticky Everlasting thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, amend it with compost or perlite to improve drainage.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Make sure it receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day.Hardiness Zones: The Sticky Everlasting is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Sticky Everlasting is generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if it is overwatered or grown in poorly draining soil. To prevent these issues, make sure to follow the care guide and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
The Sticky Everlasting is native to Western Australia and is commonly found in sandy, coastal habitats. It grows best in warm, dry climates and is often used in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Sticky Everlasting be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives enough sunlight.Q: How often should I fertilize my Sticky Everlasting?
A: Fertilize the plant once every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.Q: How do I propagate the Sticky Everlasting?
A: The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing the root ball in the spring.Q: Is the Sticky Everlasting deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant and is a good choice for gardens that are frequented by deer.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Bracteantha bracteata
- Bracteantha dentata
- Bracteantha viscosa ‘Mango’
- Bracteantha viscosa ‘Golden Bouquet’
References
- “Bracteantha Viscosa.” Australian Plant Name Index, Australian National Botanic Gardens, https://biodiversity.org.au/nsl/services/apni/name/search?name=Bracteantha+viscosa.
- “Bracteantha Viscosa.” PlantNet, National Herbarium of New South Wales, https://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Bracteantha~viscosa.
- “Sticky Everlasting.” Gardening Australia, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/factsheets/sticky-everlasting/9420468.
