Bellis

Description

Bellis is a genus of flowering plants in the family of Asteraceae. It is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 15 cm tall. Bellis is native to Europe and Asia, but it is widely cultivated in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It has small daisy-like flowers with yellow centers and white or pink petals. The leaves are green and spoon-shaped, arranged in a basal rosette that grows close to the ground. Bellis is a hardy plant that blooms in early spring and continues to bloom until the summer.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The flowers of Bellis are small, measuring only 2 to 3 cm in diameter. They have yellow centers and white or pink petals that are notched at the tips. The leaves are spoon-shaped and grow in a basal rosette. They are green and have a slightly hairy texture. Bellis is a low-growing plant that reaches a height of up to 15 cm. It blooms in early spring and continues to bloom until the summer. The flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Care Guide

Bellis is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow Bellis:

• Water: Bellis prefers moist soil but can tolerate short periods of drought. Water your Bellis regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilization: Bellis does not require a lot of fertilizer. You can fertilize it once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
• Soil: Bellis grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
• Sunlight: Bellis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well.
• Hardiness Zones: Bellis is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 7.

Common Pests & Diseases

Bellis is generally a healthy plant that is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:

• Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and deformation of leaves and flowers. You can control them by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap.
• Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. You can control it by removing infected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.

Habitat

Bellis is native to Europe and Asia. It grows in meadows, lawns, and other open areas. It prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade. Bellis has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant and can be found in gardens, parks, and other landscaped areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Bellis a perennial or an annual plant?

A: Bellis is a short-lived perennial plant that is often grown as an annual.

Q: How do I propagate Bellis?

A: You can propagate Bellis by dividing the plant in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.

Q: Can I grow Bellis in a container?

A: Yes, Bellis can be grown in a container. Use a well-draining potting mix and water the plant regularly.

Q: How often should I deadhead Bellis?

A: Deadhead Bellis regularly to encourage continuous blooming. Remove spent flowers as soon as they wilt.

Related Plants

• Achillea
• Chrysanthemum
• Leucanthemum
• Tanacetum

References

• https://www.gardenia.net/plant/bellis-perennis-daisy
• https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/1012/bellis-perennis/details
• https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/annual/bellis/
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bellis-daisy/growing-bellis-daisies.htm