Contents
Description
Aragoa is a genus of flowering plants from the family Asteraceae. It consists of only one species, Aragoa echinata, which is also known as the Hedgehog Aragoa. This plant is native to the Canary Islands and Morocco, and it can also be found in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. Aragoa echinata is a small shrub that can reach up to 1.5 meters in height. It has green leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Aragoa |
| Species | Aragoa echinata |
Appearance
Aragoa echinata is a small shrub that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It has green leaves that are about 5 cm long and 1 cm wide. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lanceolate. The flowers of Aragoa echinata are yellow and have a diameter of about 2 cm. They bloom in the summer and are arranged in inflorescences. The fruit of this plant is an achene that is about 2 mm long.
Care Guide
Aragoa echinata is a plant that is easy to care for. It requires moderate watering and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. The soil should be well-draining, and the plant should be placed in a location with full sun or partial shade. Aragoa echinata can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Aragoa echinata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. One of the most common pests is the mealybug, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap. Spider mites and scale insects can also be a problem, and they can be controlled with horticultural oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot, which can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Aragoa echinata is native to the Canary Islands and Morocco, where it grows in rocky areas and on hillsides. It can also be found in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Aragoa echinata a drought-tolerant plant?
A: Aragoa echinata can tolerate dry conditions but should be watered regularly.
Q: Can Aragoa echinata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Aragoa echinata can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage.
Q: How often should Aragoa echinata be fertilized?
A: Aragoa echinata should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two to three weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can Aragoa echinata be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Aragoa echinata can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Senecio kleinia
- Euphorbia canariensis
- Aeonium arboreum
- Crassula ovata
References
- “Aragoa echinata”. PlantZAfrica.com. South African National Biodiversity Institute.
- “Aragoa echinata”. Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Hedgehog Aragoa”. Royal Horticultural Society.
