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Description
Helianthus Californicus, commonly known as California Sunflower, is a flowering plant native to California and Oregon. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant produces a single stem with lance-shaped leaves and yellow daisy-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early fall. It is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helianthus |
Appearance
The California Sunflower has a single stem that can grow up to 6 feet tall with lance-shaped leaves that are 1-6 inches long. The leaves are gray-green in color and covered with short hairs that give them a rough texture. The flowers are yellow and daisy-like with dark centers and can be up to 3 inches in diameter. They bloom from late spring to early fall and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Helianthus Californicus is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care. Here are some tips on how to care for your California Sunflower:
- Water: Water regularly, but do not overwater. The plant prefers well-drained soil.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Helianthus Californicus can grow in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The California Sunflower is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:
- Aphids: Small green insects that suck the sap out of the plant. Can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Whiteflies: Tiny white insects that fly up in a cloud when the plant is disturbed. Can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Powdery mildew: A fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. Can be controlled with a fungicide.
- Root rot: A disease caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. Can be prevented by planting in well-drained soil.
Habitat
Helianthus Californicus is native to California and Oregon and can be found in grasslands, open woodlands, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate drought conditions. The plant is also commonly grown in gardens and landscaping due to its attractive appearance and ease of care.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helianthus Californicus an annual or perennial plant?
A: Helianthus Californicus can be an annual or perennial plant.
Q: What is the ideal sunlight requirement for the California Sunflower?
A: The California Sunflower prefers full sun to partial shade.
Q: Can Helianthus Californicus tolerate drought conditions?
A: Yes, Helianthus Californicus can tolerate drought conditions.
Q: What is the ideal hardiness zone for the California Sunflower?
A: Helianthus Californicus can grow in zones 7-10.
Related Plants
- Helianthus annuus (Common Sunflower)
- Helianthus debilis (Beach Sunflower)
- Helianthus maximiliani (Maximilian Sunflower)
- Helianthus petiolaris (Prairie Sunflower)
References
- California Native Plant Society. (n.d.). Helianthus californicus. Retrieved from https://www.calscape.org/Helianthus-californicus-(California-Sunflower)
- University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. (n.d.). Helianthus californicus. Retrieved from https://ucanr.edu/sites/UrbanHort/California_native_plants_by_common_name/California_Sunflower/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Helianthus californicus. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b877
