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Description
Cota Tinctoria, also known as Dyers Chamomile, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. This plant is commonly used for making dyes and has been cultivated since the Middle Ages. The plant is also used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as stomach problems and skin disorders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Cota |
Appearance
Cota Tinctoria grows up to 60 cm tall and has a bushy growth habit. The leaves are green and feathery, and the flowers are yellow and daisy-like. The plant blooms from June to August and produces abundant flowers. The seeds are small and black and are used for propagation.
Care Guide
Cota Tinctoria is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not tolerate wet feet. Water moderately, and make sure the soil is dry before watering again.
- Fertilization: Cota Tinctoria does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: This plant grows well in well-drained, sandy soil. It can also tolerate poor soil conditions.
- Sunlight: Cota Tinctoria prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cota Tinctoria is generally pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. Overwatering can also lead to root rot.
Habitat
Cota Tinctoria is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It grows in dry, rocky habitats such as hillsides and meadows. This plant can tolerate poor soil conditions and is often found in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cota Tinctoria be grown indoors?
A: Cota Tinctoria prefers full sun and is best grown outdoors. However, it can be grown indoors if given adequate light.
Q: Is Cota Tinctoria toxic?
A: No, Cota Tinctoria is not toxic and is safe for human consumption.
Q: How long does it take for Cota Tinctoria to bloom?
A: Cota Tinctoria blooms from June to August and produces abundant flowers during this time.
Q: How do you propagate Cota Tinctoria?
A: Cota Tinctoria can be propagated through seed or division. The seeds are small and black and can be sown directly in the soil in the spring.
Related Plants
- Achillea millefolium (Common Yarrow)
- Calendula officinalis (Pot Marigold)
- Tagetes erecta (African Marigold)
- Chrysanthemum cinerariifolium (Dalmatian Pyrethrum)
References
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/25359/cota-tinctoria/details
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/cota-tinctoria-dyers-chamomile
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/dyers-chamomile/growing-dyers-chamomile.htm
- https://www.bhg.com/gardening/plant-dictionary/perennial/cota-tinctoria/
