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Description
Atocion is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. This genus contains only one species, Atocion compactum, also known as the dwarf everlasting. The plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Atocion compactum is a small perennial shrub that has become increasingly popular among gardeners due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Atocion |
Appearance
Atocion compactum is a small, woody shrub that grows up to 1 foot tall and wide. It has silvery-green leaves that are covered in silky, fine hairs. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that are pink or lavender in color and bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the tips of the branches, and they are surrounded by papery, white bracts that give the plant its distinctive appearance.
Care Guide
Atocion compactum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some guidelines for caring for this plant:Water: Atocion compactum prefers well-drained soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.Soil: Atocion compactum prefers well-drained soil that is neutral to slightly acidic. Amend heavy or clay soil with organic matter to improve drainage.Sunlight: Atocion compactum prefers full sun to partial shade. It does best in areas with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Atocion compactum is hardy in USDA zones 7-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Atocion compactum is relatively pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Common pests include aphids and spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Atocion compactum is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it grows in dry, rocky soils in desert and scrubland habitats.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Atocion compactum be grown in containers?A: Yes, Atocion compactum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide good drainage.Q: Does Atocion compactum attract pollinators?A: Yes, Atocion compactum is attractive to bees and butterflies.Q: Can Atocion compactum be propagated from cuttings?A: Yes, Atocion compactum can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or early summer.Q: How often should I prune Atocion compactum?A: Atocion compactum does not require regular pruning, but you can prune it in the fall or winter to maintain its shape or remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Asteraceae family that are related to Atocion compactum include:- Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower)- Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan)- Helianthus annuus (common sunflower)- Chrysanthemum spp. (mums)- Coreopsis spp. (tickseed)
References
– “Atocion compactum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282339- “Atocion compactum.” Dave’s Garden. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/191766/- “Atocion compactum.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/191766/
