Manulea

Description

Manulea, also known as the Cape Daisy, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is often used in gardening and horticulture due to its vibrant colors and easy care. Manulea can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a bushy, dense appearance. It produces daisy-like flowers that come in a range of colors including yellow, orange, pink, and white.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Eudicots
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Manulea

Appearance

Manulea has a compact, bushy appearance and can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are green and slightly lobed and the plant produces daisy-like flowers that come in a range of colors including yellow, orange, pink, and white. The flowers have a central disc surrounded by petals and can grow up to 2 inches in diameter. Manulea blooms from late spring to early fall and is often used as a bedding plant or for container gardening.

Care Guide

Manulea is an easy plant to care for and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. Here are some tips for caring for your Manulea:

• Water: Manulea prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
• Fertilization: Manulea benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season using a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.
• Soil: Manulea prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Manulea prefers full sun but can tolerate some partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Manulea is hardy in zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual in other zones.

Common Pests & Diseases

Manulea is generally a hardy plant with few pest or disease problems. However, it can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help prevent and control these issues.

Habitat

Manulea is native to South Africa and is often found growing in rocky or sandy soils in coastal regions. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some partial shade. Manulea is often used in gardening and horticulture due to its easy care and vibrant colors.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Manulea be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Manulea can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Manulea?

A: Manulea benefits from regular fertilization during the growing season using a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer.

Q: What is the best time to plant Manulea?

A: Manulea can be planted in the spring after the last frost or in the fall.

Q: Can Manulea tolerate drought?

A: Manulea prefers regular watering but can tolerate some drought once established.

Related Plants

• Aster
• Marigold
• Zinnia
• Sunflower

References

• “Manulea.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=290198&isprofile=0>.
• “Manulea.” Gardening Know How. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cape-daisy/growing-cape-daisy-plants.htm>.
• “Manulea.” The Spruce. Accessed 10 May 2021. <https://www.thespruce.com/grow-manulea-plant-1315833>.