Contents
Description
Craspedia Aurantia, also known as Orange Billy Button, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Australia and New Zealand and is widely cultivated for its unique appearance and long-lasting blooms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Craspedia |
| Species | Aurantia |
Appearance
Craspedia Aurantia grows up to 30 cm tall and has a rounded, compact shape. It has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 10 cm long and vibrant orange-yellow flowers that resemble small balls. The flowers grow on long, slender stems that rise above the foliage and bloom from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Craspedia Aurantia is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Craspedia Aurantia in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Craspedia Aurantia thrives in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Craspedia Aurantia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Craspedia Aurantia is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some common pests that can affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Craspedia Aurantia is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in grasslands and open forests. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Craspedia Aurantia a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Craspedia Aurantia is easy to care for and is a great choice for beginners.
Q: Can Craspedia Aurantia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Craspedia Aurantia can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: How often should I fertilize Craspedia Aurantia?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer every four to six weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Craspedia Aurantia survive in cold climates?
A: No, Craspedia Aurantia is not frost-tolerant and can only survive in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Craspedia Globosa
- Craspedia Paniculata
- Craspedia Variabilis
References
- “Craspedia Aurantia Fact Sheet.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed July 13, 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/gnp/gnp11/craspedia-aurantia.html.
- “Craspedia Aurantia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 13, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b574.
- “Craspedia Aurantia (Orange Billy Button).” Gardenia. Accessed July 13, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/craspedia-aurantia-orange-billy-button.
