Contents
Description
Oclemena Acuminata, commonly known as the Whorled Aster, is a perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the family Asteraceae and is known for its beautiful white or pink flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a spread of about 2 feet. It is an excellent addition to any garden and attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Oclemena |
Appearance
The leaves of Oclemena Acuminata are narrow and lance-shaped, growing up to 4 inches long. They are arranged in whorls of 3-6 leaves around the stem, giving the plant its common name. The flowers are small, about 1 inch in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. They have white or pink petals and a yellow center. The plant blooms from August to October and prefers full sun to partial shade.
Care Guide
Oclemena Acuminata is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Oclemena Acuminata is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oclemena Acuminata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overcrowding the plants and ensure they have good air circulation. If necessary, treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Oclemena Acuminata is native to North America and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the continent. It grows in moist meadows, open woods, and along stream banks. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Oclemena Acuminata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Oclemena Acuminata attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: When is the best time to plant Oclemena Acuminata?
A: The best time to plant the Whorled Aster is in the spring or fall, when the weather is cooler.
Q: Is Oclemena Acuminata a deer-resistant plant?
A: No, the plant is not deer-resistant and may need protection in areas with high deer populations.
Related Plants
- Oclemena nemoralis
- Oclemena paludosa
- Oclemena reticulata
- Oclemena serpentaria
References
- “Oclemena acuminata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b898. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.
- “Whorled Aster.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/whorled-aster. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.
- “Oclemena acuminata.” The National Gardening Association, garden.org/plants/view/118589/Oclemena-acuminata/. Accessed 20 Sept. 2021.
