Bellium

Description

Bellium is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is also known as Daisy or Miniature Daisies. These plants are native to Europe and North Africa, where they grow in rocky and sandy habitats. Belliums are small, herbaceous perennials that produce a profusion of small, white, daisy-like flowers that bloom from spring to fall. They are prized for their delicate, low-growing habit and their ability to form a dense mat of foliage that makes them ideal for ground cover.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Bellium

Appearance

Belliums are small, low-growing plants that reach a height of about 10 cm and a spread of about 30 cm. They have a dense, mat-forming habit with tiny, glossy green leaves that are less than 1 cm long. The leaves are arranged in a rosette and form a basal clump from which the flowers arise. The flowers are small, white, and daisy-like, with yellow centers that bloom from spring to fall, depending on the variety. Belliums are perfect for edging paths and borders, or for planting in rock gardens and containers.

Care Guide

Belliums are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for your Bellium plant:Water: Belliums prefer moist but well-draining soil. Water regularly and evenly, but avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize Belliums once a month with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season.Soil: Belliums grow best in well-draining, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. Avoid heavy, clay soils.Sunlight: Belliums prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.Hardiness Zones: Belliums are hardy to USDA zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Belliums are relatively pest and disease-resistant plants. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and well-fed, and prune away any infected or damaged leaves or stems.

Habitat

Belliums are native to Europe and North Africa, where they grow in rocky and sandy habitats, as well as in meadows and along roadsides. They are adapted to a wide range of soil types and can tolerate both drought and heat.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Belliums tolerate frost?
A: No, Belliums are not frost-tolerant and should be protected from freezing temperatures.Q: Can Belliums be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Belliums can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.Q: How often should Belliums be fertilized?
A: Belliums should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.Q: Can Belliums be divided?
A: Yes, Belliums can be divided in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and divide the clumps into smaller sections, replanting each section in its own pot or in the ground.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Bellium:

• Aster ericoides
• Erigeron
• Leucanthemum
• Chrysanthemum

References

• “Bellium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h200.
• “Bellium.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/232237/Bellium/Details.
• “Bellium.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/grow-and-care-for-bellium-plant-5087051.