Crepis

Description

Crepis is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. The genus includes around 200 species of annuals and perennials that are native to Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America. The plants have yellow, orange, or pink daisy-like flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Crepis

Appearance

Crepis plants vary in size and shape depending on the species. They can grow up to 6 feet tall and have a spread of up to 2 feet. The leaves are usually elongated and can be either lobed or unlobed. The flowers are typically yellow, orange, or pink in color and have a daisy-like appearance. They bloom in the summer and fall and are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Crepis plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Crepis:

• Water: Crepis plants prefer well-drained soil and can tolerate periods of drought. Water deeply once a week during the growing season.
• Fertilization: Fertilize Crepis plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Crepis plants prefer well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Crepis plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Crepis plants can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3 through 10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Crepis plants are relatively pest and disease resistant. However, they can be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, keep your plants healthy by providing good soil, water, and sunlight. If you do notice pests or disease, treat them with a pesticide or fungicide according to the instructions on the label.

Habitat

Crepis plants are native to Europe, Asia, North Africa, and North America. They can be found growing in meadows, pastures, and open woodland areas. Some species are considered invasive in certain areas, so check with your local extension office before planting Crepis.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Crepis plants grow in containers?
A: Yes, Crepis plants can grow in containers as long as the container is large enough and has good drainage.

Q: Do Crepis plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Crepis plants are attractive to bees and butterflies.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Crepis plants?
A: Fertilize Crepis plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Q: Are Crepis plants invasive?
A: Some species of Crepis are considered invasive in certain areas, so check with your local extension office before planting Crepis.

Related Plants

• Sunflower (Helianthus)
• Daisy (Bellis perennis)
• Aster (Asteraceae)
• Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia)

References

• “Crepis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed February 20, 2022. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287401&isprofile=0&basic=crepis.
• “Crepis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed February 20, 2022. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/18149/crepis/details.
• “Crepis.” The Spruce. Accessed February 20, 2022. https://www.thespruce.com/grow-crepis-in-your-garden-1315902.