Geraea

Description

Geraea is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. It is composed of annual and perennial herbs that grow in the southwestern United States and Mexico. The flowers of the Geraea plant are daisy-like and have yellow petals and a brown center. It is also commonly known as golden desert plume or desert sunflower.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Geraea plant has a bushy growth habit and can reach up to 3 feet in height. Its leaves are gray-green in color and are covered in fine hairs. The flowers of the Geraea plant are about 2 inches in diameter and have 8-13 yellow petals with a brown center. The plant blooms from mid-spring to early summer.

Care Guide

Water: The Geraea plant requires moderate watering, especially during its growing period. It is essential to ensure that the plant is not overwatered as it can lead to root rot and other diseases.

Fertilization: The Geraea plant requires fertilization once a month during its growing period. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer to ensure that the plant receives all the necessary nutrients.

Soil: The Geraea plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate soil with a slightly alkaline or slightly acidic pH.

Sunlight: The Geraea plant requires full sunlight exposure to thrive. It can tolerate partial shade, but it may affect its blooming period.

Hardiness Zones: The Geraea plant is hardy in zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Geraea plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. The use of a fungicide can help prevent these diseases. The plant may also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

The Geraea plant is native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It grows in sandy and rocky soils in desert areas, including the Sonoran, Mojave, and Chihuahuan deserts. It can also grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.

Question and Answer

Q: Is the Geraea plant drought-tolerant?

A: Yes, the Geraea plant is drought-tolerant and can survive long periods without water.

Q: Can the Geraea plant grow in containers?

A: Yes, the Geraea plant can grow in containers as long as they have good drainage and are placed in full sunlight.

Q: How often should I fertilize the Geraea plant?

A: The Geraea plant should be fertilized once a month during its growing period.

Q: When is the blooming period of the Geraea plant?

A: The Geraea plant blooms from mid-spring to early summer.

Related Plants

• Geraea canescens
• Geraea viscida
• Geraea aurantiaca
• Geraea paupercula

References

• Carr, W. R., & Turner, B. L. (2010). The taxonomy of Geraea (Asteraceae: Heliantheae). Phytoneuron, 2010-38.
• USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. (n.d.). Geraea canescens. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=GECA2
• Arizona State University. (n.d.). Geraea canescens. Retrieved from https://calscape.org/Geraea-canescens-()