Achyrachaena

Description

Achyrachaena is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, native to western North America. The name Achyrachaena is derived from Greek, meaning “chaff tail,” referring to the bristles on the achenes (seeds). The genus contains only one species, Achyrachaena mollis, commonly known as soft achyrachaena or blow wives. It is a small annual herb that grows up to 30 cm tall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Achyrachaena
Species	Achyrachaena mollis

Appearance

Achyrachaena mollis has green leaves that are hairy and lobed, growing in a basal rosette. The stems are also hairy and branch out. The flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of about 5 mm. They bloom from May to September. The achenes are oblong, with bristles that are longer than the seed itself.

Care Guide

Achyrachaena mollis is an easy plant to care for. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun exposure. The plant can tolerate drought conditions but benefits from occasional watering. Fertilization is not necessary, as the plant can obtain nutrients from the soil. It is hardy to USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Achyrachaena mollis is generally disease-free and pest-resistant. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, a fungal disease that appears as a white powder on the leaves. Powdery mildew can be treated with fungicides or by removing infected plant parts. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Achyrachaena mollis is native to the coastal regions of California and Oregon. It grows in grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands, often in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields. The plant is well-adapted to dry and sandy soils.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Achyrachaena mollis be grown indoors?

A: Achyrachaena mollis is best grown outdoors, as it requires full sun exposure and well-drained soils.

Q: Is Achyrachaena mollis an invasive species?

A: No, Achyrachaena mollis is not considered invasive.

Q: Can Achyrachaena mollis be propagated by cuttings?

A: No, Achyrachaena mollis is an annual plant that reproduces by seed.

Q: How tall does Achyrachaena mollis grow?

A: Achyrachaena mollis can grow up to 30 cm tall.

Related Plants

• Agoseris
• Arnica
• Balsamorhiza
• Cirsium
• Erigeron
• Grindelia
• Helenium
• Solidago

References

• “Achyrachaena mollis” – USDA Plants Database
• “Achyrachaena” – Flora of North America
• “Achyrachaena mollis” – Calflora