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Description
Emilia Praetermissa, also known as the Red Tassel Flower or Red Bristlegrass, is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to East Africa and is widely cultivated in gardens and parks for its ornamental value. The plant grows up to 50cm in height and blooms from late spring to early fall. The flowers are small, bright red, and resemble tassels, which is where it gets its common name from.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Emilia |
Appearance
The plant has a bushy growth habit with multiple stems that arise from the base. The leaves are lanceolate, up to 10cm long, and have serrated edges. The flowers are small, about 1cm in diameter, and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. They are bright red, tubular in shape, and have long bristles that resemble tassels. The plant produces small, black seeds that can be collected for propagation.
Care Guide
Emilia Praetermissa is a relatively easy plant to care for and can thrive in a wide range of conditions. Here are some tips to help you care for your plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to encourage healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 6.0 to 7.0 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun, but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Emilia Praetermissa is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, it can be grown as an annual.
Common Pests & Diseases
Emilia Praetermissa is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by a few common problems:
- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and distorted leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and stems. It can be treated with a fungicide or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Emilia Praetermissa is native to East Africa, where it grows in grasslands and open areas. It has been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant and can be found in gardens, parks, and along roadsides. The plant prefers warm, sunny conditions and well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can I grow Emilia Praetermissa in a container?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in a container as long as it has good drainage and is fertilized regularly.
Q: How often should I water my Emilia Praetermissa?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: Can I propagate Emilia Praetermissa from cuttings?
A: No, the plant is best propagated from seeds.
Q: Does Emilia Praetermissa attract butterflies?
A: Yes, the bright red flowers of the plant can attract butterflies and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Emilia Coccinea
- Emilia Sonchifolia
- Emilia Javanica
References
- “Emilia Praetermissa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 28, 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c969>.
- “Emilia Praetermissa.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed September 28, 2021. <http://pza.sanbi.org/emilia-praetermissa>.
- “Red Tassel Flower (Emilia Praetermissa).” Backyard Gardener. Accessed September 28, 2021. <https://www.backyardgardener.com/plantname/red-tassel-flower-emilia-praetermissa/>.
