Cassinia

Description

Cassinia is a genus of plants commonly found in Australia and New Zealand. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is characterized by its small, daisy-like flowers and narrow leaves. The plant is known for its ability to thrive in harsh, dry conditions and is often used in landscaping projects due to its hardiness and low maintenance requirements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Cassinia plants typically grow to be around 1-2 meters in height and have narrow, elongated leaves that are often grey or silver in color. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that can be white, pink, or yellow in color. The flowers usually bloom in late summer and early autumn, and are known for their delicate appearance and sweet fragrance.

Care Guide

Caring for Cassinia plants is relatively simple. They thrive in well-drained soil and prefer full sun or partial shade. These plants are also known for their ability to withstand drought, so they don’t require a lot of water. Fertilization is not necessary, but can help promote growth and flowering. Cassinia plants are generally hardy in zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Cassinia plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if they are overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and spider mites may also occasionally infest these plants, but can usually be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Habitat

Cassinia plants are native to Australia and New Zealand, where they are found in a variety of habitats including rocky outcroppings, sandy beaches, and dry grasslands. They are well-suited to these harsh environments and are often used in landscaping projects in arid regions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Cassinia plants tolerate frost?

A: No, Cassinia plants are not frost-tolerant and should be grown in areas with mild winters.

Q: How often should Cassinia plants be watered?

A: Cassinia plants are drought-tolerant and should only be watered when the soil is completely dry.

Q: Can Cassinia plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Cassinia plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plants receive plenty of sunlight.

Q: Do Cassinia plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Cassinia plants are known to attract bees and butterflies with their sweet fragrance and bright flowers.

Related Plants

• Cassinia aculeata
• Cassinia arcuata
• Cassinia laevis
• Cassinia longifolia

References

• “Cassinia.” Australian National Botanic Gardens. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021. https://www.anbg.gov.au/cgi-bin/apni?TAXON_NAME=CASSINIA
• “Cassinia.” New Zealand Plant Conservation Network. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021. https://www.nzpcn.org.nz/flora/species/cassinia/
• “Cassinia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 27 Sept. 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16937/Cassinia/Details