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Description
Chaenactis douglasii is a beautiful plant that is native to the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as Douglas dustymaiden or pincushion plant. This perennial herb grows to a height of 20 to 60 cm and has a slender stem with many branches. The flowers of Chaenactis douglasii are small, with white or pink petals, and have a pincushion-like appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Chaenactis |
| Species | Douglasii |
Appearance
Chaenactis douglasii has a slender stem with many branches that grow up to 60 cm in height. The leaves are small, narrow, and green in color. The flowers are small and have white or pink petals that are arranged in a pincushion-like shape. The plant blooms from June to September and produces many flowers.
Care Guide
To care for Chaenactis douglasii, you should provide it with well-draining soil and full sun exposure. The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering. However, you should water it occasionally during dry periods to prevent the soil from drying out completely. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant can grow in poor soils. Chaenactis douglasii is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chaenactis douglasii is generally healthy and does not suffer from many pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet or poorly drained. In addition, it may be attacked by aphids or spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Chaenactis douglasii grows naturally in dry, rocky soils in the western United States, including California, Nevada, and Oregon. It is found in open meadows, chaparral, and sagebrush habitats. The plant is adapted to drought and can grow in poor soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chaenactis douglasii an annual or a perennial plant?
A: Chaenactis douglasii is a perennial plant.
Q: Does Chaenactis douglasii require a lot of water?
A: No, Chaenactis douglasii is drought-tolerant and does not require regular watering.
Q: What is the best time to plant Chaenactis douglasii?
A: The best time to plant Chaenactis douglasii is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild.
Q: Can Chaenactis douglasii be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Chaenactis douglasii can be grown in containers, as long as they have well-draining soil and receive full sun exposure.
Related Plants
- Chaenactis artemisiifolia
- Chaenactis carphoclinia
- Chaenactis glabriuscula
- Chaenactis stevioides
References
- “Chaenactis douglasii.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Chaenactis douglasii.” Calflora.
- “Douglas dustymaiden.” Las Pilitas Nursery.
