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Description
Cotula Australis, also known as Australian Cotula or Brass Buttons, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Australia and New Zealand and has become popular among gardeners around the world due to its attractive appearance and low-maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Cotula |
Appearance
Cotula Australis is a small, mat-forming plant that grows up to 10cm in height and spreads up to 50cm in width. It has tiny, oval-shaped leaves that are bright green in color and covered in fine hairs. The leaves grow in a rosette pattern at the base of the plant and are arranged alternately along the stems.
The plant produces yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from spring to summer. The flowers are 1-2cm in diameter and grow on short stems above the foliage. The petals are narrow and pointed, giving the flower a star-like appearance.
Care Guide
Water: Cotula Australis prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Fertilization: Fertilize Cotula Australis with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Soil: Cotula Australis grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
Sunlight: Cotula Australis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
Hardiness Zones: Cotula Australis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual or brought indoors for the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cotula Australis is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. It can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Cotula Australis is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in a range of habitats, including coastal dunes, grasslands, and open forests. In its native range, it is often found growing in sandy or rocky soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cotula Australis frost-tolerant?
A: Cotula Australis is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from frost in colder climates.
Q: Can Cotula Australis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Cotula Australis can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should I prune Cotula Australis?
A: Cotula Australis does not require regular pruning, but you can trim back any dead or damaged foliage as needed.
Q: Can Cotula Australis be grown indoors?
A: Cotula Australis can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a well-lit area and watered regularly.
Related Plants
- Cotula coronopifolia
- Cotula leptinella
- Cotula lineariloba
- Cotula squalida
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/groundcover/cotula/growing-cotula-plants.htm
- https://www.gardeningwithangus.com.au/cotula-australis-brass-buttons/
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18170/cotula-australis/details
