Contents
Description
Lamyropsis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, native to the Andes Mountains in South America. The genus contains only two known species, Lamyropsis microcephala and Lamyropsis senecionides. These plants are commonly found growing in the high-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes of the Andes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Lamyropsis |
Appearance
Lamyropsis plants are small, herbaceous perennials that typically grow up to 30 cm tall. They have basal rosettes of leaves that are often hairy and toothed. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters on long, slender stems. The leaves and flowers of Lamyropsis plants are often covered in a dense layer of woolly hairs, which help to protect them from the harsh conditions of their high-altitude habitat.
Care Guide
Lamyropsis plants are relatively easy to care for, but they do require some specific conditions in order to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for Lamyropsis plants:- Water: These plants prefer well-drained soil, so be sure not to overwater them. Water them when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: Lamyropsis plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a light application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.- Soil: These plants prefer a well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy, clay soils.- Sunlight: Lamyropsis plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause them to become leggy and weak.- Hardiness Zones: Lamyropsis plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lamyropsis plants are relatively pest-resistant, but they can be affected by a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of the most common problems:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation around the plants and avoiding overhead watering.- Aphids: These tiny insects can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Slugs and snails: These pests can be controlled with a copper-based slug and snail repellent.
Habitat
Lamyropsis plants are native to the high-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes of the Andes Mountains in South America. They are adapted to the cold, dry conditions of this environment, and can survive temperatures as low as -10°C. Lamyropsis plants are often found growing alongside other alpine plants, such as members of the genus Gentiana and the family Poaceae.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Lamyropsis plants toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Lamyropsis plants are toxic to pets, but it is always best to err on the side of caution and keep pets away from them.
Q: Can Lamyropsis plants be grown indoors?
A: Lamyropsis plants are not well-suited to indoor growing, as they require a lot of sunlight and cool temperatures to thrive.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Lamyropsis plants?
A: Lamyropsis plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a light application of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Lamyropsis plants tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Lamyropsis plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 through 11 and can tolerate temperatures as low as -10°C.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the family Asteraceae:- Senecio- Helianthus- Artemisia- Solidago- Echinacea
References
– The Plant List. (2013). Lamyropsis. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Compositae/Lamyropsis/- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Lamyropsis. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b902
