Contents
Description
Corethrogyne filaginifolia is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family, native to California and Baja California. Commonly known as California aster, it is a perennial herb that grows up to 60 cm tall. It has small, daisy-like flowers that bloom in late summer and fall. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Corethrogyne |
Appearance
The California aster has slender stems with light green leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves are narrow, up to 6 cm long and 2 mm wide. The flowers are small, with yellow centers and purple petals that are up to 1 cm long. They grow in clusters at the ends of the stems, and bloom from July to October. The plant produces small, hairy fruits that are less than 1 cm long.
Care Guide
Corethrogyne filaginifolia is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in full sun or partial shade and is drought-tolerant, but should be watered regularly during its first year of growth. It prefers well-draining soil and should be fertilized once a year in the spring. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corethrogyne filaginifolia is generally free of pests and diseases, but can be susceptible to root rot in poorly-draining soil. Aphids and mites may occasionally infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The California aster is a common plant in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats in California and Baja California. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as roadsides and vacant lots.
Question and Answer
Q: Can California aster be grown in containers?
A: Yes, California aster can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: Will California aster attract pollinators to my garden?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: How often should I fertilize California aster?
A: California aster should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can California aster be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, California aster can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Related Plants
- Corethrogyne leucophylla
- Corethrogyne filaginoides
- Corethrogyne oppositifolia
References
- Calflora: Corethrogyne filaginifolia
- CNPS Rare Plant Inventory: Corethrogyne filaginifolia
- Las Pilitas Nursery: Corethrogyne filaginifolia
