Contents
Description
Thelesperma is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly found in North America, particularly in the southern and western regions of the United States. The name Thelesperma comes from the Greek words “thele,” which means nipple or teat, and “sperma,” which means seed, referring to the shape of its seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Thelesperma |
Appearance
Thelesperma plants are typically low-growing, reaching a height of only 12 to 24 inches. They have narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are usually green or gray-green in color. The flowers, which bloom from late spring to summer, are bright yellow and daisy-like in appearance. They are typically 2 to 3 inches in diameter and have a dark yellow or brown center. Thelesperma plants are known for their hardiness and ability to tolerate dry conditions.
Care Guide
Thelesperma plants are relatively easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your Thelesperma plants healthy:
- Water: Thelesperma plants prefer well-drained soil and do not require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Thelesperma plants do not require fertilizer, but you can use a general-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
- Soil: Thelesperma plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: Thelesperma plants require full sun to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Thelesperma plants are hardy in zones 5 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thelesperma plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep your plants healthy by providing them with adequate sunlight and water. If necessary, you can treat pests and diseases with insecticidal soap or a fungicide.
Habitat
Thelesperma plants are native to North America and are commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. They are particularly common in the southern and western regions of the United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, and New Mexico.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Thelesperma plants drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Thelesperma plants are known for their ability to tolerate dry conditions and are drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Can Thelesperma plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Thelesperma plants can be grown in containers as long as the containers are large enough and have adequate drainage.
Q: Do Thelesperma plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Thelesperma plants are known for attracting bees and butterflies.
Q: Are Thelesperma plants invasive?
A: No, Thelesperma plants are not considered invasive and are not known to aggressively spread.
Related Plants
- Coreopsis
- Ratibida
- Gaillardia
- Echinacea
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Thelesperma. Flora of North America. https://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=132379
- Thelesperma. (2021, March 8). Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thelesperma
- Thelesperma. (n.d.). Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b488
