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Description
Blainvillea Acmella, also known as the Brazilian Sunflower, is a tropical plant that is native to South America. This perennial plant belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its bright yellow flowers that bloom in the summer season. The plant can grow up to 6 feet in height and 3 feet in width. Blainvillea Acmella is commonly grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Blainvillea |
Appearance
Blainvillea Acmella has bright green leaves that are ovate in shape and can grow up to 12 inches in length. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are up to 4 inches in diameter and have a disc-like shape. The flowers are surrounded by yellow or orange ray petals that are toothed at the tips. Blainvillea Acmella blooms in the summer season and can continue to bloom until the fall.
Care Guide
Blainvillea Acmella requires moderate care and attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this tropical plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot. Allow the soil to dry out between watering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Blainvillea Acmella in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, so make sure to place it in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blainvillea Acmella is susceptible to pests and diseases that can affect its growth and overall health. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap out of the plant and cause damage to the leaves and flowers.
- Spider Mites: These pests can create webbing on the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery substance to appear on the leaves and stems of the plant.
- Root Rot: Overwatering can cause root rot, which can lead to the plant’s death.
Habitat
Blainvillea Acmella is native to South America and can be found in countries such as Brazil, Paraguay, and Argentina. The plant thrives in tropical and subtropical regions and can be grown in gardens and landscapes as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Blainvillea Acmella be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Blainvillea Acmella can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s growth.
Q: How often should I fertilize Blainvillea Acmella?
A: Fertilize the plant every 2-3 weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal temperature range for Blainvillea Acmella?
A: The plant thrives in temperatures between 60-90°F.
Q: Can Blainvillea Acmella be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Related Plants
- Sunflower (Helianthus annuus)
- Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta)
- Marigold (Tagetes spp.)
- Zinnia (Zinnia elegans)
References
- “Blainvillea Acmella.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a495.
- “Blainvillea Acmella.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/blainvillea-acmella.
- “Blainvillea Acmella (Brazilian Sunflower) – Gardenia.net.” Gardenia.net, www.gardenia.net/plant/blainvillea-acmella-brazilian-sunflower.
