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Description
Lasthenia Gracilis, also known as slender goldfields, is an annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to California and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and open woods. The plant has bright yellow flowers that bloom from April to July and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Lasthenia |
Appearance
The slender goldfields plant can grow up to 1 foot tall and has narrow leaves that are about 1 inch long. The leaves are light green in color and hairy. The plant produces numerous small flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter and have bright yellow petals. The center of the flower is darker yellow and contains numerous small disk flowers.
Care Guide
Slender goldfields plants prefer well-drained soil and full sun exposure. They are drought-tolerant and do not require frequent watering. However, they will benefit from occasional deep watering during dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Slender goldfields plants are generally free from major pest and disease problems. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew, which is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The slender goldfields plant is native to California and can be found in various habitats such as grasslands, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the slender goldfields plant easy to grow?
A: Yes, the slender goldfields plant is easy to grow and requires minimal care.
Q: What is the blooming period of the slender goldfields plant?
A: The slender goldfields plant blooms from April to July.
Q: What pests can infest the slender goldfields plant?
A: Aphids and spider mites can infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the slender goldfields plant?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Lasthenia californica
- Lasthenia glabrata
- Lasthenia maritima
- Lasthenia minor
References
- Baldwin, B. G. (2012). The Jepson manual: vascular plants of California. University of California Press.
- Calscape. (n.d.). Lasthenia gracilis (Slender goldfields). Retrieved from https://calscape.org/Lasthenia-gracilis-()
- USDA. (n.d.). Plants profile for Lasthenia gracilis (Slender goldfields). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LAGR7
