Contents
Description
Pentameris Rigidissima is a perennial evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the Cape Daisy. It grows up to 1 meter tall and has a spread of 60 cm. The plant produces bright yellow daisy-like flowers with a black center, which bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pentameris |
Appearance
The Pentameris Rigidissima plant has a dense, bushy growth habit with woody stems and branches. The leaves are glossy, dark green, and lance-shaped, with a length of 5-10 cm. The flowers are bright yellow, daisy-like, and have a diameter of 5-7 cm. They bloom from late spring to early summer and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The plant produces small, black seeds that are dispersed by wind.
Care Guide
Water: Pentameris Rigidissima requires moderate watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate dry conditions once established. It is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. It is recommended to fertilize every two weeks.Soil: Pentameris Rigidissima prefers well-draining, sandy soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.Sunlight: The plant requires full sun exposure to thrive and bloom.Hardiness Zones: Pentameris Rigidissima is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pentameris Rigidissima is generally disease and pest resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Pentameris Rigidissima is native to the Western Cape province of South Africa, where it grows in sandy soils in coastal areas. It prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate salt spray and windy conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pentameris Rigidissima a good plant for beginners?A: Yes, Pentameris Rigidissima is a relatively easy plant to grow and care for, making it a good choice for beginners.Q: Does Pentameris Rigidissima attract pollinators?A: Yes, Pentameris Rigidissima produces bright yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies.Q: Can Pentameris Rigidissima tolerate dry conditions?A: Yes, Pentameris Rigidissima can tolerate dry conditions once established, but it requires moderate watering during the growing season.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pentameris Rigidissima?A: Pentameris Rigidissima is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Pentameris genus include:
- Pentameris Burchellii
- Pentameris Glauca
- Pentameris Longiflora
- Pentameris Olivacea
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/cape-daisy/growing-cape-daisy-plants.htm
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/pentameris-rigidissima
- https://www.south-florida-plant-guide.com/cape-daisy.html
- http://pza.sanbi.org/pentameris-rigidissima
