Contents
Description
Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra, commonly known as the Black Mountain Daisy, is a rare and unique plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. This plant species is native to New Zealand, where it grows in harsh and rocky environments. It is a low-growing perennial that forms a tight mat of small, woolly leaves. When in bloom, it produces tiny yellow flowers that are visually appealing.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Raoulia |
Appearance
Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra is a low-growing perennial that forms a tight mat of small, woolly leaves. Its leaves are greenish-grey and covered in fine hairs that give them a fuzzy texture. When in bloom, it produces tiny yellow flowers that are about 3mm in diameter. The flowers are held on short stems that rise above the foliage, and they bloom in late spring to early summer. The plant can grow up to 10cm in height and can spread up to 1m wide.
Care Guide
Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra is a hardy plant that can thrive in harsh environments. Here are some care tips to help you grow this plant:
- Water: This plant can tolerate drought, so it does not need frequent watering. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: This plant does not need fertilization.
- Soil: It prefers well-draining soil that is low in nutrients. A sandy or rocky soil is ideal.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra is generally free from pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra is native to New Zealand, where it grows in rocky and harsh environments. It is found in alpine and subalpine areas at elevations of 200 to 800 meters. The plant can tolerate extreme temperatures and wind, making it well-suited for high-altitude environments.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra a good plant for rock gardens?
A: Yes, this plant is well-suited for rock gardens because it prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate harsh environments.
Q: Can Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra be grown indoors?
A: No, this plant is not suitable for indoor cultivation because it requires full sun and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra?
A: This plant can tolerate drought, so it does not need frequent watering. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Q: Does Raoulia Hookeri Var. Apicenigra attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, the tiny yellow flowers of this plant attract bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Raoulia Australis
- Raoulia Glabra
- Raoulia Haastii
- Raoulia Lutescens
- Raoulia Monroi
References
- de Lange, P. J., & Norton, D. A. (2019). Raoulia hookeri var. apicenigra. New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Retrieved from https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/raoulia-hookeri-var-apicenigra/
- McGimpsey, D. (2019). Raoulia hookeri var. apicenigra. Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/162720/Raoulia-hookeri-Var-apicenigra/Details
- Robson, N. K. B. (2007). Studies in the Raoulia (Asteraceae: Gnaphalieae) complex 1. A revision of the Raoulia hookeri group. New Zealand Journal of Botany, 45(2), 179-206. doi: 10.1080/00288250709509748
