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Felicia Aethiopica

Felicia Aethiopica

Description

Felicia Aethiopica, also known as Blue Marguerite, is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and commonly grown as an ornamental plant for its blue and white daisy-like flowers. The plant is a perennial herb and can grow up to 1m tall.

Taxonomic Information

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

Appearance

The leaves of Felicia Aethiopica are dark green, lanceolate and hairy. The flowers are blue or white and have yellow centers. They bloom from spring to summer and attract bees and butterflies. The plant has a bushy growth habit and can spread up to 50cm wide.

Care Guide

Water: Felicia Aethiopica needs regular watering during the growing season but should be allowed to dry out between watering to avoid root rot. In winter, reduce watering to once a month.

Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season.

Soil: Felicia Aethiopica grows best in well-draining soil. Use a sandy or loamy soil mix with a pH of 6.0-7.0.

Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Hardiness Zones: Felicia Aethiopica is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Felicia Aethiopica is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It may also be affected by root rot if overwatered. Treatment for pests includes spraying with insecticidal soap or neem oil. To prevent root rot, ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

Habitat

Felicia Aethiopica is native to South Africa and grows in rocky areas and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Felicia Aethiopica be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Felicia Aethiopica can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container has drainage holes.

Q: How often should Felicia Aethiopica be fertilized?

A: Felicia Aethiopica should be fertilized every two weeks during the growing season.

Q: What is the best way to propagate Felicia Aethiopica?

A: Felicia Aethiopica can be propagated from stem cuttings or by dividing the plant in spring.

Q: Does Felicia Aethiopica attract pollinators?

A: Yes, Felicia Aethiopica attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.

Related Plants

  • Felicia amelloides
  • Felicia bergeriana
  • Felicia echinata
  • Felicia heterophylla

References

  • “Felicia Aethiopica.” Plantz Africa, South African National Biodiversity Institute, www.plantzafrica.com/plantefg/felicaaethiop.htm.
  • “Felicia Aethiopica.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/plants/274789/Felicia-aethiopica/Details.
  • “Felicia Aethiopica.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, wcsfp.worldplants.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:918759-1.

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