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Description
Athrixia Heterophylla, also known as Fireball Daisy, is a flowering plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is a popular garden plant due to its bright orange flowers that bloom in summer and autumn. The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a bushy appearance. The leaves are green, narrow, and slightly hairy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Athrixia |
Appearance
Athrixia Heterophylla is a bushy plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall and wide. The leaves are narrow, green, and slightly hairy. The plant produces bright orange flowers that bloom in summer and autumn. The flowers are daisy-like and have a yellow center surrounded by orange petals. The plant is an evergreen perennial, meaning that it retains its leaves throughout the year.
Care Guide
Water
Athrixia Heterophylla prefers moderate watering. It should be watered once a week during the growing season and once every two weeks during the dormant season. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s important to ensure that the soil is well-drained.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive growth and reduced flowering.
Soil
Athrixia Heterophylla prefers well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter and nutrient-dense.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones
Athrixia Heterophylla is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Athrixia Heterophylla is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It may also be affected by powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and is not overwatered. If pests or diseases are detected, treat the plant with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Athrixia Heterophylla is native to South Africa and is commonly found in grasslands, fynbos, and forest margins.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Athrixia Heterophylla a good plant for beginner gardeners?
A: Yes, Athrixia Heterophylla is an easy-to-grow plant that is suitable for beginner gardeners.
Q: How often should I fertilize Athrixia Heterophylla?
A: Athrixia Heterophylla should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Athrixia Heterophylla tolerate shade?
A: Yes, Athrixia Heterophylla can tolerate some shade, but it may produce fewer flowers.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for Athrixia Heterophylla?
A: Athrixia Heterophylla is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Athrixia Elata
- Athrixia Floribunda
- Athrixia Litoralis
References
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/athrixia-heterophylla-fireball-daisy
- https://www.sanbi.org/plant-of-the-week/athrixia-heterophylla/
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/fireball-daisy/fireball-daisy-care.htm
