Didelta

Description

Didelta is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to South Africa. It is a small genus, consisting of only two species, Didelta carnosa and Didelta spinosa. Didelta carnosa is the more commonly cultivated species, and is also known as the waxflower. Both species are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 1 meter tall.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Didelta has attractive, bright green leaves that are lance-shaped and velvety to the touch. Its flowers are tubular and two-lipped, with the upper lip being a deep purple and the lower lip being white or pale pink. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are borne on tall, upright stems. The waxflower cultivar has a white, waxy coating on the leaves and stems that gives it a shimmering appearance.

Care Guide

Didelta is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is tolerant of drought, but should be watered regularly during dry spells. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Didelta is hardy to USDA zones 9-11, and should be protected from frost in colder climates.

Common Pests & Diseases

Didelta is relatively pest-free, but can be affected by aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Didelta can also be susceptible to root rot if overwatered, so it is important to ensure that the soil is well-drained.

Habitat

Didelta is native to the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal regions of South Africa, where it grows in sandy, well-drained soils in grasslands and savannas.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Didelta be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Didelta can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.

Q: Is Didelta a good plant for attracting pollinators?

A: Yes, Didelta’s tubular flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Q: How often should Didelta be pruned?

A: Didelta does not require regular pruning, but can be trimmed back after flowering to maintain its shape.

Q: Can Didelta be propagated from cuttings?

A: Yes, Didelta can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the late summer or early fall.

Related Plants

• Ageratum
• Aster
• Chrysanthemum
• Daisy

References

• The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Didelta. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/5524/didelta/details
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Didelta. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c704
• University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Didelta carnosa. Retrieved from http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/GARDEN/FLOWERS/didelcarn.html