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Description
Cheirolophus Intybaceus is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as the dwarf golden-flowered cardoon. This plant is prized for its stunning golden-yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are surrounded by spiny leaves that add to the plant’s character.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cheirolophus |
Appearance
Cheirolophus Intybaceus is a small plant, typically growing to a height of around 30cm. It has a rosette of spiny leaves at the base, with the flowers appearing on tall stems above the foliage. The flowers are large and showy, with numerous yellow petals surrounding a central disc. The leaves are deeply lobed and have a silvery-grey appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Cheirolophus Intybaceus prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry, but avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can cause fungal diseases.Fertilization: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing after the plant has started to flower.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It does not like heavy or clay soils.Sunlight: Cheirolophus Intybaceus prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade.Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cheirolophus Intybaceus is relatively disease-resistant but can be affected by fungal diseases if the leaves get wet. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, especially in hot, dry conditions.
Habitat
Cheirolophus Intybaceus is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky, well-draining soils in areas with a Mediterranean climate. It is often found growing in coastal regions and on rocky hillsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cheirolophus Intybaceus easy to grow?
A: This plant is relatively easy to grow, as long as it is given well-draining soil and not overwatered.Q: How often should I fertilize my Cheirolophus Intybaceus?
A: Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing after the plant has started to flower.Q: Can Cheirolophus Intybaceus tolerate some shade?
A: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some light shade.Q: What pests and diseases should I be on the lookout for?
A: Aphids and spider mites can be a problem, especially in hot, dry conditions. Fungal diseases can also be an issue if the leaves get wet.
Related Plants
- Cheirolophus Crassifolius
- Cheirolophus Gossypinus
- Cheirolophus Uliginosus
References
- “Cheirolophus Intybaceus.” PlantFiles. Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/60009/
- “Cheirolophus Intybaceus.” The Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101885/Cheirolophus-intybaceus/Details
- “Cheirolophus Intybaceus.” Mediterranean Garden Society. https://www.mediterraneangardensociety.org/plants/Cheirolophus_intybaceus.html
