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Description
Ancistrocarphus is a genus of plants belonging to the aster family (Asteraceae). This genus includes about 10 species of annual or perennial herbs, which are native to western North America. Ancistrocarphus is also known as “chaffbush” or “burr chaffbush.” The name Ancistrocarphus comes from two Greek words, “ancistron” meaning hook and “karphos” meaning fruit, referring to the hooked fruits of some species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ancistrocarphus |
Appearance
Ancistrocarphus plants are generally small, ranging from 10 to 30 cm in height. The leaves are simple and alternate, with entire or toothed margins. The flowers are usually yellow or white, arranged in small heads or clusters at the ends of the stems. The heads have both ray and disk flowers, and are surrounded by leafy bracts. The fruits are achenes (dry, one-seeded fruits) with a pappus (tuft of hairs) at the top. The achenes of some species have hooked or barbed hairs, which help the fruits attach to animals or clothing for dispersal.
Care Guide
Water
Ancistrocarphus plants prefer well-drained soil and moderate water. Water the plants deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems.
Fertilization
Ancistrocarphus plants are not heavy feeders and can do well in poor or rocky soil. However, adding a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote growth and flowering.
Soil
Ancistrocarphus plants prefer well-drained, sandy or gravelly soil. They can tolerate some clay or loam, but may suffer in heavy or poorly-drained soils.
Sunlight
Ancistrocarphus plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but may become leggy or fail to flower in deep shade.
Hardiness Zones
Ancistrocarphus plants are generally hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9, depending on the species.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ancistrocarphus plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be attacked by aphids, spider mites, or powdery mildew. These problems can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or other treatments.
Habitat
Ancistrocarphus plants are native to western North America, from British Columbia and Alberta in Canada, south to California and New Mexico in the United States. They are generally found in dry or rocky habitats, such as sagebrush steppe, open woodlands, or rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Ancistrocarphus plants drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Ancistrocarphus plants can tolerate some drought and dry soil, but they still need moderate water to thrive.
Q: Can Ancistrocarphus plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ancistrocarphus plants can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is well-drained and the plants receive enough sunlight.
Q: Do Ancistrocarphus plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Ancistrocarphus plants are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Ancistrocarphus plants be propagated by cuttings?
A: No, Ancistrocarphus plants are generally grown from seeds, as they do not root easily from cuttings.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the aster family:
- Achillea (yarrow)
- Artemisia (sagebrush)
- Aster (aster)
- Coreopsis (tickseed)
- Echinacea (coneflower)
- Helianthus (sunflower)
- Rudbeckia (black-eyed Susan)
References
- Flora of North America: Ancistrocarphus
- Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: Ancistrocarphus
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Ancistrocarphus
