Degenia

Description

Degenia is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. This genus comprises only one species known as Degenia velebitica. This plant is native to the Velebit Mountains in Croatia and is known for its unique and beautiful appearance. Degenia is a perennial plant that grows in rocky areas and produces small yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens or as a groundcover.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Degenia
Species	Degenia velebitica

Appearance

Degenia has a unique and beautiful appearance. It is a low-growing perennial plant that forms a dense mat of foliage. The leaves are small, narrow, and dark green. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The flowers are daisy-like and have a bright yellow center surrounded by yellow petals. The plant grows up to 10-15 cm in height and spreads up to 30 cm wide.

Care Guide

Proper care is essential to keep Degenia healthy and thriving. Here are some care tips:

Water

Degenia prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be overwatered. It is best to water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch. Watering should be reduced during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

Fertilization

Degenia does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth and blooming.

Soil

Degenia prefers well-drained soil with a slightly alkaline pH. A mix of sand, gravel, and loam can be used to provide the plant with the necessary nutrients and drainage.

Sunlight

Degenia prefers full sunlight but can also tolerate partial shade. It is best to place the plant in an area with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.

Hardiness Zones

Degenia is hardy in USDA zones 5-9 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -20°F (-29°C).

Common Pests & Diseases

Degenia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot if overwatered or placed in an area with poor air circulation. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Degenia is native to the Velebit Mountains in Croatia, where it grows in rocky areas and on limestone cliffs. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight. It is an excellent choice for rock gardens or as a groundcover.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Degenia grow in containers?

A: Yes, Degenia can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.

Q: How often should I fertilize Degenia?

A: Degenia does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth and blooming.

Q: Can Degenia tolerate drought?

A: Degenia can tolerate drought but prefers to be watered when the soil is dry to the touch.

Q: How often should I prune Degenia?

A: Degenia does not require frequent pruning. However, dead or damaged foliage can be removed as needed.

Related Plants

• Senecio serpens
• Sedum acre
• Delosperma cooperi

References

• “Degenia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 9 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Degenia.
• “Degenia velebitica.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c438.