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Description
Smallanthus Pyramidalis, also known as Andean Sunflower or Wild Sunflower, is a perennial plant native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is one of the largest and most diverse plant families in the world.The plant has a shrubby appearance and can grow up to 2 meters tall. It produces yellow flowers that resemble sunflowers and bloom from late spring to early autumn. The flowers are followed by small, edible fruits that are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Smallanthus |
Appearance
Smallanthus Pyramidalis has a woody stem with green, oval-shaped leaves that can grow up to 15 cm long. The leaves are covered with small hairs and have serrated edges. The plant produces yellow flowers that are about 5 cm in diameter and have a dark brown center. The flowers are followed by small, green fruits that turn yellow when ripe.
Care Guide
Smallanthus Pyramidalis is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to take care of it:- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Smallanthus Pyramidalis is hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Smallanthus Pyramidalis can be susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:- Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that suck sap from the plant.- Spider mites: Tiny pests that feed on the plant and can cause yellowing of the leaves.- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that causes a white, powdery coating on the leaves.To prevent these pests and diseases, keep the plant healthy and well-watered, and remove any infected leaves or stems.
Habitat
Smallanthus Pyramidalis is native to the Andes Mountains in South America, where it grows at high elevations of up to 4000 meters. The plant prefers cool temperatures and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Smallanthus Pyramidalis a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Smallanthus Pyramidalis is a relatively easy plant to care for and is a good choice for beginners.
Q: Can I grow Smallanthus Pyramidalis indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Smallanthus Pyramidalis indoors, but the plant prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: Can I eat the fruits of Smallanthus Pyramidalis?
A: Yes, the fruits of Smallanthus Pyramidalis are edible and are used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: How often should I fertilize Smallanthus Pyramidalis?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Smallanthus Pyramidalis:- Helianthus annuus (Common Sunflower)- Rudbeckia hirta (Black-Eyed Susan)- Echinacea purpurea (Purple Coneflower)- Solidago canadensis (Canada Goldenrod)
References
– “Smallanthus pyramidalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 27, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=258306.- “Smallanthus pyramidalis.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed May 27, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/smallanthus-pyramidalis.
