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Description
Calocephalus citreus, commonly known as the silver bush or lemon ball, is a small, evergreen shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Australia and is a popular ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes around the world. The silver bush is a low-growing plant that typically reaches a height of 30-40 cm and spreads 30-40 cm wide. It has a rounded shape and produces small, bright yellow flowers in summer. The leaves of the silver bush are tiny and silvery-grey, giving the plant a unique and striking appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Calocephalus |
| Species: | C. citreus |
Appearance
The silver bush has a unique appearance that makes it a popular choice for ornamental gardens. The plant has small, silver-grey leaves that are densely packed on woody stems, giving it a ball-like shape. The leaves are covered in fine hairs that reflect sunlight, giving the plant a shimmering appearance. In summer, the silver bush produces small, bright yellow flowers that contrast with the silvery foliage. The flowers are daisy-like and appear in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Care Guide
The silver bush is a relatively easy plant to care for, making it a popular choice for gardeners of all skill levels. Here are some tips for growing and caring for Calocephalus citreus:- Water: The silver bush prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged. Water the plant regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.- Fertilization: The silver bush does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in summer to promote healthy growth.- Soil: The silver bush prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. A mix of sandy soil and peat moss is ideal.- Sunlight: The silver bush prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and lose its shape.- Hardiness Zones: The silver bush is hardy in USDA zones 8-10. It can be grown as an annual in colder climates.
Common Pests & Diseases
The silver bush is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if over-watered. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and allow it to dry out slightly between watering. In addition, the silver bush can be affected by spider mites, which can cause yellowing and dropping of leaves. To prevent spider mites, spray the plant with a neem oil solution every two weeks during the growing season.
Habitat
The silver bush is native to Australia and is found in coastal areas and rocky outcrops. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun, but can tolerate some shade. The plant is drought-tolerant and can survive in dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the silver bush a good plant for containers?
A: Yes, the silver bush is a great choice for container gardens. Its compact size and unique appearance make it a popular choice for small gardens and balconies.
Q: How often should I fertilize my silver bush?
A: The silver bush does not require frequent fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring and again in summer to promote healthy growth.
Q: Can the silver bush tolerate frost?
A: The silver bush is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate some frost, but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can damage the plant.
Q: How often should I water my silver bush?
A: Water the silver bush regularly, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering. The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be waterlogged.
Related Plants
– Calocephalus brownii (cushion bush)- Artemisia stelleriana (dusty miller)- Helichrysum petiolare (licorice plant)- Senecio cineraria (dusty miller)
References
– “Calocephalus citreus (Lemon Ball).” Australian Native Plants Society. https://anpsa.org.au/c-cit.html- “Calocephalus citreus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c441- “Silver Bush.” Gardenia. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/calocephalus-citreus-silver-bush
