Eriocoma

Description

Eriocoma is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. It is native to North America, particularly in the western United States. The genus consists of about 6 species of perennial herbs that grow in dry and rocky habitats. Eriocoma is also known as woollyheads due to the dense woolly hairs on its flower heads. The flowers are typically yellow or cream-colored and bloom in late spring to early summer.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Eriocoma

Appearance

Eriocoma plants are generally small, growing up to 1-2 feet tall. The stems are usually slender and hairy, with basal leaves that are long and narrow. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and are surrounded by dense woolly hairs. The flowers themselves are small and yellow or cream-colored with 5 petals. The woolly hairs on the flowers and leaves help the plant retain moisture in dry environments.

Care Guide

Eriocoma plants are hardy and low maintenance. Here are some care tips for growing Eriocoma:

Water: Eriocoma prefers well-drained soil and does not require much watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.

Fertilization: Eriocoma does not require much fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth.

Soil: Eriocoma prefers well-drained soil with a slightly acidic pH. The plant can tolerate poor soil conditions and rocky soil.

Sunlight: Eriocoma prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones: Eriocoma is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Eriocoma plants are generally pest and disease resistant. However, they may be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation and treat accordingly.

Habitat

Eriocoma plants are native to North America and can be found growing in dry and rocky habitats such as deserts, grasslands, and rocky slopes. They are adapted to survive in harsh environments with little water.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the meaning of the name Eriocoma?

A: Eriocoma is derived from the Greek words erion, meaning wool, and coma, meaning hair, referring to the woolly hairs on the flowers and leaves of the plant.

Q: How do I propagate Eriocoma?

A: Eriocoma can be propagated by seed or by division. Sow the seeds in the fall or spring, or divide the plant in the spring.

Q: Can Eriocoma be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Eriocoma can be grown in containers as long as they have well-drained soil and receive sufficient sunlight.

Q: Are Eriocoma plants toxic to pets?

A: There is no evidence that Eriocoma plants are toxic to pets.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Asteraceae family:

• Achillea
• Artemisia
• Echinacea
• Helianthus
• Rudbeckia

References

• “Eriocoma.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 4 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b268>
• “Eriocoma.” PlantFiles. Accessed 4 May 2021. <http://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/57923/>
• “Eriocoma.” World Flora Online. Accessed 4 May 2021. <http://www.worldfloraonline.org/taxon/wfo-4000004837>