Contents
Description
Sclerocarpus is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. It is also commonly known as the rough-leaved aster. The genus contains only one species, Sclerocarpus uniserialis, which is native to North America. The plant has a woody stem and can grow up to 3 feet tall. It produces small, daisy-like flowers in the fall and has rough, hairy leaves.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Sclerocarpus |
Appearance
The rough-leaved aster has rough, hairy leaves that are lance-shaped and grow up to 4 inches long. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers in the fall that are white or pinkish-purple in color. The flowers grow in clusters at the end of the stem and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant has a woody stem that can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Care Guide
Sclerocarpus is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. The plant is drought-tolerant, but regular watering is recommended. Fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sclerocarpus is typically not affected by pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid or damp conditions. If powdery mildew is present, treat the plant with a fungicide and improve air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Sclerocarpus is native to North America and can be found in dry, open areas such as prairies and fields. It grows well in areas with well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Sclerocarpus grow in shade?
A: Sclerocarpus prefers full sun, but can tolerate some shade.Q: How often should I water Sclerocarpus?
A: Sclerocarpus is drought-tolerant, but regular watering is recommended.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Sclerocarpus?
A: Sclerocarpus is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.Q: Is Sclerocarpus affected by pests or diseases?
A: Sclerocarpus is typically not affected by pests or diseases, but may be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid or damp conditions.
Related Plants
- Aster
- Chrysopsis
- Coreopsis
- Solidago
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SCUN
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/asters/growing-roughleaf-aster.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280823&isprofile=0&
