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Description
Helichrysum Cephaloideum, also known as Cape Gold or Silver, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family native to South Africa. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 60 cm tall and 90 cm wide. The plant is characterized by its small, silver-grey leaves and bright yellow flowers that bloom from summer to autumn.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
Helichrysum Cephaloideum has small, silver-grey leaves that are lance-shaped and covered in fine hairs. The leaves grow in clusters along the stems, giving the plant a bushy appearance. The bright yellow flowers are daisy-like and grow in clusters at the ends of the stems. The flowers bloom from summer to autumn and are long-lasting, making them popular in cut flower arrangements.
Care Guide
Helichrysum Cephaloideum is relatively easy to care for and is well-suited to dry, Mediterranean climates. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:- Water: Helichrysum Cephaloideum is drought-tolerant and prefers to be watered sparingly. Water deeply once a week during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Use a mixture of sand, perlite, and peat moss to improve drainage.- Sunlight: Helichrysum Cephaloideum thrives in full sun and needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helichrysum Cephaloideum is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To treat these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be prone to root rot if overwatered, so be sure to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Habitat
Helichrysum Cephaloideum is native to the Cape Province of South Africa, where it grows in rocky areas and along the coast. The plant is well-suited to dry, Mediterranean climates and can tolerate a range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helichrysum Cephaloideum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Helichrysum Cephaloideum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Helichrysum Cephaloideum?
A: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Helichrysum Cephaloideum be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from cuttings taken in spring or summer.
Related Plants
– Helichrysum Italicum- Helichrysum Bracteatum- Helichrysum Stoechas- Helichrysum Petiolare
References
– “Helichrysum Cephaloideum.” PlantZAfrica, National Botanical Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/helichryceph.htm.- “Helichrysum Cephaloideum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b563.
