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Description
Leptinella Dioica, also known as the Brass Buttons, is a low-growing herbaceous perennial that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to New Zealand and is widely cultivated in gardens for its attractive foliage and tiny yellow flowers. The Brass Buttons can reach a height of 3-6 inches and spread up to 1-2 feet in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Leptinella |
Appearance
The Brass Buttons have fern-like leaves that are soft, green, and circular, measuring about 0.5-1 inch in diameter. The leaves are slightly hairy and have a pungent scent when crushed. The tiny yellow flowers bloom in spring and summer and grow in clusters that resemble buttons. The flowers are less than 0.25 inches in diameter and are not showy.
Care Guide
Water: The Brass Buttons prefer moist, well-drained soil but can tolerate some dryness. Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot.Fertilization: The Brass Buttons do not require frequent fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: The Brass Buttons grow well in well-drained, fertile soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH level.Sunlight: The Brass Buttons prefer partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade to prevent scorching of the leaves.Hardiness Zones: The Brass Buttons are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Brass Buttons are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they can be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and spider mites if overwatered or grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
The Brass Buttons are native to New Zealand, where they grow in rocky, dry areas and alpine meadows. They can adapt well to a wide range of soil conditions and are commonly grown in gardens and landscapes.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow the Brass Buttons in a container?
A: Yes, the Brass Buttons are suitable for container gardening as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-drained.Q: How often should I water the Brass Buttons?
A: Water the Brass Buttons regularly, but avoid overwatering, which can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.Q: How do I propagate the Brass Buttons?
A: The Brass Buttons can be propagated by division in early spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections. Replant the divisions in well-drained soil.Q: How do I prune the Brass Buttons?
A: The Brass Buttons do not require pruning, but you can trim back the foliage in early spring to promote bushier growth.
Related Plants
- Leptinella Squalida
- Leptinella Platts Black
- Leptinella Minima
- Leptinella Gracilis
References
- “Leptinella Dioica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 6 May 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280929&isprofile=0&>.
- “Leptinella Dioica.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 6 May 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/7207/leptinella-dioica/details>.
- “Leptinella Dioica.” Gardenia. Accessed 6 May 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/Leptinella-Dioica-Brass-Buttons>.
