Contents
Description
Dittrichia is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family, also known as false yellowhead or golden fleece. It consists of around 40 species that are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa. These plants are generally annual or perennial herbs, with some growing up to 1.5 meters in height.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus|| ———- | ——— | ———| ———| ———| —————-| ————|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Asterales | Asteraceae| Dittrichia|
Appearance
Dittrichia plants have alternate leaves that are typically lance-shaped and covered with hairs. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruits are small achenes with a pappus of bristles. The entire plant is covered with a dense layer of woolly hairs, giving it a soft and fluffy appearance.
Care Guide
Dittrichia plants prefer well-draining soil and full sun exposure. They are relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate dry conditions. However, they do require regular watering during periods of drought. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of balanced fertilizer in the spring may help promote growth.These plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and aphids in humid conditions.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dittrichia plants may be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and aphids. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves. Rust is a fungal disease that causes orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves. Aphids are small insects that feed on the sap of the plant and can cause stunted growth and yellowing of leaves.
Habitat
Dittrichia plants can be found in a variety of habitats, including dry meadows, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas. They are often found in Mediterranean climates and are well adapted to hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Dittrichia plants suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, Dittrichia plants are suitable for container gardening as long as they are provided with well-draining soil and adequate water.Q: How often should Dittrichia plants be watered?
A: Dittrichia plants should be watered regularly, especially during periods of drought. However, they do not like to be overwatered and can tolerate dry conditions.Q: What is the best time to plant Dittrichia?
A: The best time to plant Dittrichia is in the spring after the last frost. This will give the plants enough time to establish before the hot summer months.Q: Can Dittrichia plants be grown indoors?
A: Dittrichia plants prefer full sun exposure and are not well-suited for indoor growing. They are best grown outdoors in a sunny, well-draining location.
Related Plants
– Arnica- Helichrysum- Inula- Tanacetum
References
– “Dittrichia” Encyclopedia Britannica, https://www.britannica.com/plant/Dittrichia- “Dittrichia viscosa” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d146- “Dittrichia graveolens” PlantNET, http://plantnet.rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au/cgi-bin/NSWfl.pl?page=nswfl&lvl=sp&name=Dittrichia~graveolens
