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Description
Conoclinium betonicifolium, commonly known as the betony-leaf mistflower, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and ponds. The plant produces clusters of small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall. The leaves are lance-shaped and toothed, and the stems are square and hairy.
Taxonomy
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Conoclinium |
Appearance
The betony-leaf mistflower can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The leaves are dark green and can be up to 6 inches long. The flowers are small, about 1/4 inch in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The flowers have lavender-blue petals and yellow centers. The plant blooms from late summer to early fall and attracts butterflies and other pollinators.
Care Guide
The betony-leaf mistflower prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sand. Water regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The betony-leaf mistflower is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Keep an eye out for spider mites and aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The betony-leaf mistflower is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in wetlands, swamps, and along streams and ponds. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the betony-leaf mistflower a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the betony-leaf mistflower attracts butterflies and other pollinators with its small, lavender-blue flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the betony-leaf mistflower?
A: The betony-leaf mistflower is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Q: Can the betony-leaf mistflower tolerate a range of soil types?
A: Yes, the betony-leaf mistflower can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay and sand.
Q: What is the best time to fertilize the betony-leaf mistflower?
A: Fertilize the betony-leaf mistflower once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Conoclinium coelestinum (Blue Mistflower)
- Conoclinium greggii (Gregg’s Mistflower)
- Conoclinium dissectum (Yellow Mistflower)
References
- USDA Plants Database: Conoclinium betonicifolium
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Conoclinium betonicifolium
- Gardenia: Conoclinium betonicifolium (Betony-leaf Mistflower)
