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Description
Berkheya Rigida, also known as the Silver Thistle, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas and cliffs. The plant has a unique appearance with distinctive silver-grey foliage and bright yellow flowers. Berkheya Rigida is a popular choice for gardens due to its striking appearance and low maintenance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Berkheya |
Appearance
Berkheya Rigida has a distinctive silver-grey foliage with deeply lobed leaves that can grow up to 30cm long. The plant can reach up to 60cm in height and has a spread of 45cm. The flowers are bright yellow and can grow up to 7cm in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and attract bees and butterflies to the garden.
Care Guide
Water
Berkheya Rigida prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. The plant should be watered regularly during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
Berkheya Rigida does not require fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.
Soil
Berkheya Rigida prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight
Berkheya Rigida prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones
Berkheya Rigida is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Berkheya Rigida is generally pest and disease-free. However, the plant can be affected by slugs and snails, which can be controlled using organic slug pellets or by handpicking.
Habitat
Berkheya Rigida is native to South Africa and is commonly found in rocky areas and cliffs. The plant can tolerate hot and dry conditions, making it well-suited to Mediterranean climates.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Berkheya Rigida frost tolerant?
A: No, Berkheya Rigida is not frost tolerant and should be protected in colder climates.
Q: How often should Berkheya Rigida be pruned?
A: Berkheya Rigida does not require regular pruning, but deadheading spent flowers can promote new growth.
Q: Can Berkheya Rigida be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Berkheya Rigida can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Does Berkheya Rigida attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Berkheya Rigida is a popular choice for pollinators such as bees and butterflies due to its bright yellow flowers.
Related Plants
- Berkheya Australis
- Berkheya Multijuga
- Berkheya Purpurea
References
- “Berkheya Rigida.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 1 September 2021. https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantab/berkheyarigida.htm.
- “Berkheya Rigida (Silver Thistle).” Gardenia. Accessed 1 September 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/berkheya-rigida-silver-thistle.
- “Berkheya Rigida.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 1 September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=q610.
