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Description
Callilepis Leptophylla is a species of plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the slenderleaf false goldenaster or the slenderleaf false goldenweed. This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Its scientific name, Callilepis Leptophylla, is derived from the Greek words “kalos” meaning beautiful and “lepis” meaning scale, referring to the scales on the flower head.The slenderleaf false goldenaster is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. The plant has slender, erect stems that are covered in fine hairs. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged alternately on the stem. The flowers of Callilepis Leptophylla are yellow and appear in the late summer and fall. They are arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Anthophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Callilepis |
Appearance
The slenderleaf false goldenaster has a slender, upright growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide. Its stems are covered in fine hairs, and its leaves are narrow and lance-shaped. The leaves are typically 2-4 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide. They are arranged alternately on the stem and have a slightly toothed edge.The flowers of Callilepis Leptophylla are yellow and appear in dense clusters at the top of the stem. They are approximately 0.5-0.75 inches wide and have a central disk surrounded by 5-8 ray flowers. The flowers bloom in the late summer and fall and are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Callilepis Leptophylla is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing this plant:Water: The slenderleaf false goldenaster prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater the plant, as it is susceptible to root rot.Fertilization: Callilepis Leptophylla does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A mixture of sand, loam, and peat moss is ideal.Sunlight: The slenderleaf false goldenaster prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Callilepis Leptophylla is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Callilepis Leptophylla is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, the plant can be susceptible to root rot if it is overwatered. To prevent this, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid watering the plant too frequently.
Habitat
The slenderleaf false goldenaster is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including dry slopes, desert washes, and rocky outcrops. This plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Callilepis Leptophylla a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Callilepis Leptophylla is a relatively easy plant to grow and is a good choice for beginner gardeners.Q: Can Callilepis Leptophylla be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in a container as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.Q: Does Callilepis Leptophylla attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of this plant are attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.Q: How tall does Callilepis Leptophylla grow?
A: This plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that belong to the Asteraceae family:
- Achillea millefolium (common yarrow)
- Coreopsis lanceolata (lanceleaf coreopsis)
- Helianthus annuus (common sunflower)
- Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan)
References
- “Callilepis leptophylla.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=288491&isprofile=0&basic=slenderleaf%20false%20goldenaster.
- “Callilepis leptophylla.” Plant Database. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://pfaf.org/User/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Callilepis+leptophylla.
- “Callilepis leptophylla.” USDA Plants Database. Accessed August 20, 2021. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=CALE19.
