Contents
Description
Modiolastrum is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, Asteraceae. The genus consists of around 20 species, which are native to North and South America. The plants usually grow up to 2-3 feet tall and produce small, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow. The leaves are typically lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Modiolastrum |
Appearance
The Modiolastrum plant has a bushy growth habit and produces small, daisy-like flowers in shades of pink, white, and yellow. The leaves are typically lance-shaped and arranged alternately along the stem. The plants usually grow up to 2-3 feet tall and prefer full sun or partial shade. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
The Modiolastrum plant is relatively easy to care for and requires moderate watering and fertilization. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun or partial shade. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 7-10 and can tolerate some frost. It is important to prune the plant regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged foliage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Modiolastrum plants are generally not prone to pests or diseases, but they may be susceptible to powdery mildew if the plants are grown in humid conditions or not properly pruned to allow for good air circulation. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plants, but these can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Modiolastrum plants are native to North and South America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woodlands. They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought, but they do require regular watering in hot, dry weather.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Modiolastrum plant?
A: The plant prefers moderate watering and should be watered once a week in dry weather.
Q: Can I grow Modiolastrum in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is provided with regular watering and fertilization.
Q: What is the best fertilizer for Modiolastrum?
A: The plant prefers a balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
Q: How do I prune my Modiolastrum plant?
A: Prune the plant regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or damaged foliage. Use clean, sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.
Related Plants
- Coreopsis
- Rudbeckia
- Echinacea
- Aster
References
- “Modiolastrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e268.
- “Modiolastrum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Compositae/Modiolastrum/.
- “Modiolastrum.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetailsearch.do?name_id=309823.
