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Description
Hunzikeria Texana, also known as the Texas yellow star, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the state of Texas in the United States. It is a member of the sunflower family and is characterized by its bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. The plant has a long taproot and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Angiosperms |
| Class: | Eudicots |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hunzikeria |
Appearance
Hunzikeria Texana is a tall plant with long, thin stems and bright yellow flowers. The flowers have 8-12 ray petals and a central disk that is also yellow. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant blooms in late spring and early summer and can attract bees and butterflies to the area.
Care Guide
Hunzikeria Texana is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant should be watered regularly, but not over-watered. Fertilizer can be added in the spring to encourage growth. Hunzikeria Texana is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hunzikeria Texana is generally free of pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if over-watered. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Hunzikeria Texana is native to Texas and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sunlight, but can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hunzikeria Texana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Hunzikeria Texana can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the plant receives adequate sunlight and water.
Q: Does Hunzikeria Texana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Hunzikeria Texana can attract bees and butterflies to the area when it blooms in late spring and early summer.
Q: How often should Hunzikeria Texana be fertilized?
A: Hunzikeria Texana can be fertilized once a year in the spring to encourage growth.
Q: Is Hunzikeria Texana toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that Hunzikeria Texana is toxic to pets, but it is always best to keep pets away from plants to prevent any accidental ingestion.
Related Plants
- Helianthus annuus (common sunflower)
- Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan)
- Gaillardia pulchella (Indian blanket)
- Coreopsis grandiflora (large-flowered tickseed)
References
- Native Plant Society of Texas. (n.d.). Hunzikeria Texana. Retrieved from https://npsot.org/wp/story/2011/2646/
- Wildflower Center. (n.d.). Hunzikeria Texana. Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=HUTE2
- Texas Parks & Wildlife. (n.d.). Texas Yellow Star. Retrieved from https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/texyelstar/
