Dimorphocarpa Candicans

Description

Dimorphocarpa Candicans is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is a native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. This plant is commonly known as “candicans” or “white everlasting,” which refers to its white, daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer months. Its scientific name, “Dimorphocarpa,” is derived from the Greek words “di” meaning “two,” “morpho” meaning “form,” and “carpa” meaning “fruit,” which refers to the plant’s unusual fruit structure.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Dimorphocarpa Candicans plant grows up to 2 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has a shrub-like appearance with woody stems and narrow, gray-green leaves that grow up to 3 inches long. The plant produces small white flowers with yellow centers that bloom in the summer. The flowers are about 1 inch in diameter and have a daisy-like appearance. After flowering, the plant produces unusual fruit structures that are divided into two sections, with each section containing a single seed. The fruit structures are covered with dense white hairs that give them a fluffy appearance, similar to cotton.

Care Guide

Dimorphocarpa Candicans is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but be careful not to overwater. The plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure the soil is not waterlogged.
• Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level between 5.5 and 6.5.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Dimorphocarpa Candicans is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Dimorphocarpa Candicans is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases, such as leaf spot and powdery mildew, if the plant is grown in humid conditions. Pests that can affect this plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for any signs of pests or diseases, and treat them promptly with an appropriate pesticide or fungicide.

Habitat

Dimorphocarpa Candicans is native to South America, specifically in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and Paraguay. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and open woodlands. In its native range, it is often found growing on rocky slopes and hillsides.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Dimorphocarpa Candicans a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Yes, this plant is drought-tolerant once established, but it still requires regular watering during the growing season.

Q: Can I grow Dimorphocarpa Candicans in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container. Make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.

Q: How often should I fertilize Dimorphocarpa Candicans?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing during the winter months when the plant is dormant.

Q: Can I propagate Dimorphocarpa Candicans from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.

Related Plants

• Dimorphocarpa Pinnatifida
• Dimorphocarpa Suberosa
• Dimorphocarpa Violacea

References

• “Dimorphocarpa Candicans.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c304>.
• “Dimorphocarpa Candicans.” PlantFiles. Accessed 29 July 2021. <https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/117188/>.
• “Dimorphocarpa Candicans.” World Flora Online. Accessed 29 July 2021. <http://www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-0000634419>.