Contents
Description
Pluchea Sagittalis, commonly known as Arrowleaf Sida, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America. This plant has a straight stem that grows up to 3 feet tall and produces small yellow flowers. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pluchea |
| Species | Pluchea sagittalis |
Appearance
The leaves of Pluchea Sagittalis are arrow-shaped, hence the common name Arrowleaf Sida. They are alternate and measure up to 5 inches long and 2 inches wide. The stem is green and has a hairy texture. The flowers are small and yellow, measuring up to 0.5 inches in diameter. They bloom in late summer and early fall. The fruit is an achene that measures about 1/8 inch long and has a plumed pappus that aids in seed dispersal.
Care Guide
Pluchea Sagittalis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions but prefers well-drained soil. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not overwater.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Pluchea Sagittalis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pluchea Sagittalis is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if planted in poorly drained soil. Here are some common pests and diseases:
- Root rot: This is a fungal disease that affects the roots of the plant, causing them to rot and die.
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion and stunted growth of the plant.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves.
Habitat
Pluchea Sagittalis is commonly found in open areas, such as fields, meadows, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. It is native to the southeastern United States, Mexico, Central America, and South America.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pluchea Sagittalis poisonous to humans?
A: No, Pluchea Sagittalis is not poisonous to humans.
Q: Can Pluchea Sagittalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pluchea Sagittalis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots.
Q: How often should I fertilize Pluchea Sagittalis?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pluchea Sagittalis?
A: Pluchea Sagittalis is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Related Plants
- Pluchea odorata
- Pluchea carolinensis
- Pluchea foetida
- Pluchea symphytifolia
References
- Florida Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Pluchea sagittalis. Retrieved from https://www.fnps.org/plants/plant/pluchea-sagittalis
- University of Florida IFAS Extension. (n.d.). Pluchea sagittalis. Retrieved from https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp353
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Pluchea sagittalis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PLSA2
