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Description
Crassocephalum Crepidioides, commonly known as Thickhead, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. The plant has a strong stem, which can grow up to 1.5 meters in height, with large leaves that are ovate to elliptic in shape and grow up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The plant produces small yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Crassocephalum |
Appearance
The Thickhead plant has a robust stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are large, ovate to elliptic in shape, and grow up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The leaves have a smooth surface and a slightly hairy underside. The plant produces small yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The flowers are about 1 cm in diameter and have a tubular shape. The plant’s seeds are small and brown.
Care Guide
Crassocephalum Crepidioides is an easy plant to care for. It requires moderate watering and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Thickhead plant is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. Regular spraying with insecticidal soap can help control these pests. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Crassocephalum Crepidioides is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. The plant prefers moist, well-drained soils and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. The plant is commonly found in grasslands, savannas, and disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crassocephalum Crepidioides an edible plant?
A: Yes, the leaves of the Thickhead plant are used as a vegetable in many African and Asian countries.
Q: Can Crassocephalum Crepidioides grow indoors?
A: While the plant prefers full sun, it can grow indoors if placed in a bright, sunny location.
Q: How often should I fertilize Crassocephalum Crepidioides?
A: Fertilize the plant every two weeks during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Crassocephalum Crepidioides a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Crassocephalum Crepidioides is a perennial plant.
Related Plants
- Crassocephalum rubens
- Crassocephalum biafrae
- Crassocephalum montuosum
References
- “Crassocephalum crepidioides” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=i720
- “Thickhead (Crassocephalum crepidioides)” African Plants Database. www.ville-ge.ch/musinfo/bd/cjb/africa/details.php?langue=an&id=175958
- “Crassocephalum crepidioides” Plants of the World Online. www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:245853-1
