Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Verbesina |
Description
Verbesina Alata, also known as Wingstem or Yellow Ironweed, is a perennial herb that is native to the United States. This plant can reach heights of up to 8 feet and has a spread of 2-3 feet. The stem of the plant is hairy and has winged ridges. The leaves are simple, alternate, and have serrated edges. The flowers are yellow and are produced in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from August to October.
Appearance
The Verbesina Alata plant has a tall, erect stem that is covered in hairs and has ridges that resemble wings. The stem is green and has a diameter of about 1 inch. The leaves are simple, alternate, and are about 4-12 inches long and 1-4 inches wide. The leaves have serrated edges and are green in color. The flowers are yellow and are produced in clusters at the top of the stem. The flower heads are about 1 inch in diameter and have 10-20 ray florets. The plant blooms from August to October.
Care Guide
Verbesina Alata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Verbesina Alata is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbesina Alata is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl and wilt.
- Spider Mites: These tiny insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and webbing on the plant.
- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease can cause brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves.
Habitat
Verbesina Alata is native to the United States and can be found in the eastern and central parts of the country. This plant prefers moist areas such as stream banks, wet meadows, and swamps. It can also be found in open woods and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbesina Alata a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Verbesina Alata is a good plant for attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Verbesina Alata be grown in a container?
A: While Verbesina Alata can be grown in a container, it is not recommended as the plant can grow quite tall and may require staking.
Q: How often should Verbesina Alata be fertilized?
A: Verbesina Alata should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Verbesina Alata tolerate drought?
A: Verbesina Alata prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established.
Related Plants
- Verbesina Alternifolia
- Verbesina Encelioides
- Verbesina Helianthoides
- Verbesina Occidentalis
References
- “Verbesina alata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286458&isprofile=0&.
- “Verbesina alata.” Plant Database. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Verbesina+alata.
- “Wingstem.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed September 24, 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/wetland/plants/wingstem.htm.
