Contents
Description
Crocanthemum Canadense, also known as Canadian Frostweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Cistaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, such as rocky outcrops, dry prairies, and open woods. The plant has bright yellow flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer, and its leaves are small, narrow, and green.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Cistaceae |
| Genus | Crocanthemum |
| Species | Crocanthemum Canadense |
Appearance
Crocanthemum Canadense can grow up to 30 centimeters tall and 60 centimeters wide. It has a bushy growth habit and produces multiple stems from a single rootstock. The stems are green and hairy, and the leaves are small, narrow, and green. The flowers are bright yellow with five petals and a central boss of stamens. They bloom in late spring to early summer and last for several weeks.
Care Guide
To care for Crocanthemum Canadense, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but it should be watered deeply when the soil dries out. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Crocanthemum Canadense is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to maintain good air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Crocanthemum Canadense is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, such as rocky outcrops, dry prairies, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Crocanthemum Canadense a perennial or an annual?
A: Crocanthemum Canadense is a perennial plant.
Q: What is the best time to plant Crocanthemum Canadense?
A: The best time to plant Crocanthemum Canadense is in early spring, after the last frost.
Q: Does Crocanthemum Canadense require fertilization?
A: Fertilization is not necessary for Crocanthemum Canadense, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in early spring can help promote growth.
Q: Is Crocanthemum Canadense drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Crocanthemum Canadense is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Related Plants
- Crocanthemum bicknellii (Bicknell’s Frostweed)
- Crocanthemum dumosum (Bush Frostweed)
- Crocanthemum greenei (Greene’s Frostweed)
- Crocanthemum rosmarinifolium (Rosemary-leaved Frostweed)
References
- USDA Plants Database
- Missouri Botanical Garden
- The Native Plant Society of Texas
- The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center
