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Description
Crepis Pulchra is a perennial plant species that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as “beautiful hawksbeard” due to its attractive yellow flowers that resemble hawksbeard. The plant is native to Europe and North Africa and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and dry slopes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Crepis |
Appearance
Crepis Pulchra has basal leaves that form a rosette and are dark green and shiny. The leaves are deeply pinnately lobed with a toothed margin. The plant can grow up to 60 centimeters in height, and its stem is usually branched. The yellow flowers of Crepis Pulchra are small and arranged in clusters at the end of the branches. They bloom from May to July and are followed by fruits that have white, hairy pappus.
Care Guide
Crepis Pulchra requires moderate care and attention to grow and thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water: Crepis Pulchra prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in winter.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Crepis Pulchra grows well in well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be neutral to slightly acidic.
Sunlight: Crepis Pulchra prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Crepis Pulchra can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crepis Pulchra is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. Aphids and spider mites can also infest Crepis Pulchra, so it is important to monitor the plant regularly and treat any infestations promptly.
Habitat
Crepis Pulchra is native to Europe and North Africa and can be found in meadows, fields, and dry slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions. The plant is often used in wildflower meadows and naturalistic gardens due to its attractive yellow flowers and hardy nature.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crepis Pulchra a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Crepis Pulchra is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for, making it a good choice for beginners.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crepis Pulchra?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer to the soil once a year in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: Does Crepis Pulchra attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of Crepis Pulchra attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Crepis Pulchra be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Crepis Pulchra can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Crepis Pulchra:
- Crepis Alpina
- Crepis Atkinsoniana
- Crepis Aurea
- Crepis Bursifolia
- Crepis Incana
References
- “Crepis Pulchra.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantdetails.aspx?kempercode=c496>
- “Crepis Pulchra.” Plants for a Future. Accessed 14 May 2021. <https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Crepis+pulchra>
- “Crepis Pulchra.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 14 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/19040/Crepis-pulchra/Details>
