Contents
Description
Barkleyanthus, also known as the golden aster or Barkley’s chaffhead, is a genus of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. Native to North America, this plant produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and early fall. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a bushy and compact growth habit. Barkleyanthus is a great addition to any garden, as it attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Barkleyanthus |
Appearance
Barkleyanthus has a bushy and compact growth habit, with stems that can grow up to 3 feet tall. The leaves are narrow and lance-shaped, with a dark green color. The flowers are bright yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of 1-2 inches. The flowers bloom in late summer and early fall, and can continue to bloom until the first frost. Barkleyanthus also produces fluffy seed heads that can be used for dried flower arrangements.
Care Guide
Barkleyanthus is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for growing Barkleyanthus:
- Water: Water regularly, making sure the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Barkleyanthus prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Barkleyanthus is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Barkleyanthus is not prone to many pests or diseases, but here are a few to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing distorted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can suck the sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and bronzing.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems.
Habitat
Barkleyanthus is native to North America, and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Barkleyanthus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Barkleyanthus can be grown in containers, as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Does Barkleyanthus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Barkleyanthus is a great plant for attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Barkleyanthus be fertilized?
A: Barkleyanthus should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Barkleyanthus?
A: Barkleyanthus is hardy in zones 4-8.
Related Plants
- Aster
- Chrysanthemum
- Sunflower
References
- “Barkleyanthus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 5 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e851>.
- “Barkleyanthus.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed 5 May 2021. <https://www.plantdelights.com/collections/barkleyanthus>.
- “Golden Aster (Barkleyanthus).” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed 5 May 2021. <https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/golden_asterx.htm>.
