Contents
Description
Craspedia Incana, commonly known as the Velvet Billy Button or Woollyheads, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to Australia, where it grows in arid regions and is often found in grasslands and open forests. It is a low-maintenance plant that blooms from spring to summer, producing strikingly beautiful yellow ball-shaped flowers. The flowers are popular in flower arrangements and are often dried for use in crafts.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Craspedia |
Appearance
Craspedia Incana typically grows up to 1.5 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant has grayish-green leaves that are velvety to the touch, giving it a unique texture. The flowers of this plant are spherical and have a diameter of approximately 1 inch. They are bright yellow and grow on top of long, thin stems, making them perfect for cut flowers.
Care Guide
Craspedia Incana is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water the plant when the soil dries out, but be careful not to overwater.
Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Soil: Craspedia Incana prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss is ideal.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Craspedia Incana is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Craspedia Incana is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, spider mites can infest the plant, causing yellowing leaves and webbing. To prevent these issues, ensure proper watering and periodically check for pests.
Habitat
Craspedia Incana is native to arid regions of Australia, where it grows in grasslands and open forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Craspedia Incana be grown indoors?
A: Yes, it can be grown indoors in a sunny location. However, it may not bloom as much as it would outdoors.
Q: How often should Craspedia Incana be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Craspedia Incana tolerate frost?
A: No, it is not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Q: How long do the flowers of Craspedia Incana last?
A: The flowers of this plant can last up to 10 days when cut and used in flower arrangements.
Related Plants
– Craspedia Globosa (Drumstick flower)- Leucogenes Leontopodium (Cotton head)- Chrysanthemum Parthenium (Feverfew)- Echinacea Purpurea (Purple coneflower)
References
– “Craspedia Incana- Velvet Billy Button.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). https://anpsa.org.au/c-inc.html- “Craspedia Incana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e547
