Contents
Description
Cheirolophus is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae), endemic to the Macaronesia region of the eastern Atlantic Ocean. The genus comprises around 23 species of perennial herbs or subshrubs, with a wide range of flower colors, shapes, and sizes. The name “Cheirolophus” is derived from the Greek words “cheir” meaning hand and “lophos” meaning crest, referring to the hairy bracts that surround the flowers and resemble a hand with fingers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cheirolophus |
Appearance
Cheirolophus has a wide range of flower colors, shapes, and sizes, depending on the species. The flowers are solitary or arranged in small clusters, and are surrounded by hairy bracts that resemble a hand with fingers. The leaves are simple, alternate, and often lobed or toothed. The stems are usually woody at the base, and can be erect or decumbent. The plant height ranges from 10-200 cm, depending on the species.
Care Guide
To care for Cheirolophus, follow the guidelines below:- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade, depending on the species.- Hardiness Zones: Cheirolophus is hardy to USDA zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cheirolophus is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. To control these pests, use insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Cheirolophus is endemic to the Macaronesia region of the eastern Atlantic Ocean, including the Canary Islands, Madeira, and the Azores. The plant prefers dry, rocky areas with well-drained soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the meaning of the name “Cheirolophus”?
A: The name “Cheirolophus” is derived from the Greek words “cheir” meaning hand and “lophos” meaning crest, referring to the hairy bracts that surround the flowers and resemble a hand with fingers.
Q: Is Cheirolophus a disease-resistant plant?
A: Yes, Cheirolophus is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Cheirolophus?
A: The common pests that affect Cheirolophus are aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites.
Q: What is the preferred habitat of Cheirolophus?
A: Cheirolophus prefers dry, rocky areas with well-drained soil and full sun.
Related Plants
– Argyranthemum- Crambe- Echium- Gerbera
References
– “Cheirolophus.” The Plant List. Accessed September 22, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Compositae/Cheirolophus/.- “Cheirolophus Canariensis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/18072/Cheirolophus-canariensis/Details.- “Cheirolophus Crassifolius.” Pacific Horticulture Society. Accessed September 22, 2021. https://www.pacifichorticulture.org/articles/cheirolophus-crassifolius/.
