Contents
Description
Buphthalmum, also known as Oxeye, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This herbaceous perennial plant is native to Europe and Asia and is widely used in gardens and landscapes for its attractive yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Buphthalmum |
Appearance
Buphthalmum is a tall plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. It has a clump-forming habit and produces numerous stems that are covered in green leaves. The leaves are lance-shaped, toothed, and have a slightly hairy texture.The plant produces large, daisy-like flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers have bright yellow petals that surround a central disc of tiny yellow flowers. The flowers are pollinated by bees and butterflies and are followed by seed heads that provide food for birds in winter.
Care Guide
Buphthalmum is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips to help you keep your plant healthy:
Water: Buphthalmum prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some drought. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but do not let the soil become waterlogged.
Fertilization: Buphthalmum does not require much fertilization. You can feed it with a balanced fertilizer once in spring and once in summer.
Soil: Buphthalmum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sandy soils.
Sunlight: Buphthalmum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Buphthalmum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Buphthalmum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be affected by some common garden pests, such as aphids, slugs, and snails. To control these pests, you can use insecticidal soap or diatomaceous earth.The plant can also be affected by some fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and gray mold. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation, and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Buphthalmum is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows, woodland edges, and along roadsides. The plant prefers moist soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Buphthalmum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Buphthalmum can be grown in containers. Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and use well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I prune Buphthalmum?
A: Buphthalmum does not require much pruning. You can deadhead the flowers after they fade to promote more blooms. You can also cut back the plant in late autumn or early spring to promote bushier growth.
Q: Can Buphthalmum tolerate frost?
A: Buphthalmum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can tolerate some frost. However, it may require some protection in colder climates.
Q: Does Buphthalmum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Buphthalmum is attractive to bees and butterflies and can help support pollinator populations in your garden.
Related Plants
- Achillea millefolium (Common yarrow)
- Echinacea purpurea (Purple coneflower)
- Solidago canadensis (Canada goldenrod)
- Rudbeckia hirta (Black-eyed Susan)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Buphthalmum salicifolium
- Royal Horticultural Society: Buphthalmum salicifolium
- University of Illinois Extension: Buphthalmum
