Lygodesmia

Description

Lygodesmia is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. This genus consists of about 35 species that are native to North America. The plants have a very distinctive appearance, with narrow, needle-like leaves and daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. The flowers are usually pink to lavender in color and have a yellow center. They grow on long stems that can reach up to 2 feet in height.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Lygodesmia plants have narrow, needle-like leaves that are usually less than 1/8 inch wide and up to 2 inches long. The leaves grow in a basal rosette and are arranged alternately on the stem. The stem can be up to 2 feet tall and has one or several branches. The flowers are usually pink to lavender in color and have a yellow center. They grow on long stems that can reach up to 2 feet in height. The flowers bloom in late summer or early fall.

Care Guide

Lygodesmia plants are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. They prefer well-draining soil and full sun. They are drought tolerant and do not require much water, except during periods of extended drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help to promote healthy growth. Lygodesmia plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lygodesmia plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plants, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Lygodesmia plants are native to North America and are found in grasslands, prairies, and open woods. They prefer well-draining soils and full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade. They are drought tolerant and can survive in areas with low rainfall.

Question and Answer

Q: Are Lygodesmia plants annual or perennial?
A: Lygodesmia plants are perennial.

Q: What is the best time to plant Lygodesmia?
A: The best time to plant Lygodesmia is in the spring or fall.

Q: How often should I water Lygodesmia?
A: Lygodesmia plants are drought tolerant and do not require much water, except during periods of extended drought.

Q: How tall can Lygodesmia plants grow?
A: Lygodesmia plants can grow up to 2 feet tall.

Related Plants

• Aster
• Coreopsis
• Gaillardia
• Ratibida
• Solidago

References

• https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/lygodesmia_mariana.shtml
• https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lygodesmia-alpine-silver
• https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d244