Contents
Description
Microseris Laciniata, commonly known as Slender microseris, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to western North America, including California, Oregon, and Washington. This herbaceous perennial grows to a height of 6-12 inches and has a basal rosette of leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The plant produces a single stem with a single flower head that is yellow to orange in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Microseris |
Appearance
The Slender microseris has a basal rosette of leaves that are deeply lobed and toothed. The leaves can grow up to 6 inches long and 2 inches wide. The stem has a single flower head that is yellow to orange in color and can be up to 1 inch in diameter. The flower head has numerous ray flowers that surround the central disk flowers. The plant blooms from April to June.
Care Guide
Microseris Laciniata is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are the care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Microseris Laciniata is not usually bothered by pests or diseases. However, here are some common issues to look out for:
- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant. Use an organic slug and snail bait to control them.
- Root rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can kill the plant. Ensure that the soil is well-drained and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Microseris Laciniata is native to western North America, including California, Oregon, and Washington. The plant grows in meadows, grasslands, and along roadsides. The plant is tolerant of a wide range of soil types and can grow in both dry and moist conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Microseris Laciniata a perennial or an annual?
A: Microseris Laciniata is a perennial plant.
Q: Does Microseris Laciniata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Microseris Laciniata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers, but ensure that the container has drainage holes and that the soil is well-drained.
Q: Can Microseris Laciniata be planted in the shade?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, but it can grow in the shade as well.
Related Plants
- Microseris Nutans
- Microseris Bigelovii
- Microseris Lasiophylla
- Microseris Douglasii
References
- https://www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Microseris+laciniata
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/microseris_laciniata.shtml
- https://www.inaturalist.org/taxa/53468-Microseris-laciniata
