Contents
Description
Passerina Obtusifolia, also known as the Blue mistflower or Mistflower, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to eastern North America and is commonly found in meadows, fields, and along the edges of woods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Passerina |
Appearance
Passerina Obtusifolia has a bushy growth habit and can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The plant produces numerous small, lavender-blue flowers that bloom in clusters from August to October. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 4 inches long. The stems of the plant are square and hairy.
Care Guide
Passerina Obtusifolia requires moderate watering and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. The plant prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The plant should be grown in full sun to partial shade and is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Passerina Obtusifolia is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, it is recommended to keep the plant in a well-ventilated area and to avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Passerina Obtusifolia is native to eastern North America and can be found in meadows, fields, and along the edges of woods. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Passerina Obtusifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Passerina Obtusifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.Q: How often should Passerina Obtusifolia be fertilized?
A: Passerina Obtusifolia should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Q: How often should Passerina Obtusifolia be pruned?
A: Passerina Obtusifolia should be pruned in the early spring to promote bushy growth and to remove any dead or damaged stems.Q: How can I propagate Passerina Obtusifolia?
A: Passerina Obtusifolia can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Passerina caerulea
- Passerina cyanea
- Passerina amoena
- Passerina leclancherii
References
- “Passerina Obtusifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e420.
- “Passerina Obtusifolia.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/551/.
- “Blue Mistflower (Passerina Obtusifolia).” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/bl_mistflowerx.htm.
