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Description
Tetragonotheca Texana is a flowering plant species endemic to the southern United States. It is commonly known as square bud daisy, and it belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant can grow up to two feet tall and one foot wide, with a thick stem and leaves that are narrow and pointed. The square bud daisy produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from May to October. The flowerheads are about one inch in diameter and have 8-10 petals each. This plant is a native of the prairies, meadows, and open woods of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It is also known to be an excellent source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tetragonotheca |
Appearance
The square bud daisy has a unique appearance with its square-shaped flower buds and bright yellow petals. The leaves are long and narrow, with pointed tips that can reach up to four inches in length. The stem is thick and sturdy, with branches that can grow up to one foot in length. The flowerheads are about one inch in diameter and have 8-10 petals each. The square bud daisy is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions.
Care Guide
The square bud daisy is a relatively low-maintenance plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and conditions. Here are some tips for taking care of your square bud daisy:
- Water: Water your square bud daisy regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The square bud daisy can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The square bud daisy thrives in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The square bud daisy is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The square bud daisy is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still fall victim to some common issues. Here are a few pests and diseases that you should keep an eye out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause the leaves to turn yellow and fall off the plant. Use a miticide to control spider mites.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
Habitat
The square bud daisy is native to the southern United States, specifically in Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It can be found growing in prairies, meadows, and open woods. This plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter and thrives in full sun to partial shade. The square bud daisy is an excellent source of nectar and pollen for pollinators, such as bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my square bud daisy?
A: Water your square bud daisy regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What kind of fertilizer should I use on my square bud daisy?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: What pests and diseases should I watch out for on my square bud daisy?
A: Watch out for aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the square bud daisy?
A: The square bud daisy is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Related Plants
- Tetragonotheca Helianthoides
- Tetragonotheca Ludoviciana
- Tetragonotheca Pinnatifida
- Tetragonotheca Undulata
References
- “Tetragonotheca Texana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center – The University of Texas at Austin, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TETE.
- “Tetragonotheca Texana.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/tetragonotheca-texana/.
- “Square Bud Daisy.” Native Plant Database – Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TETE.
