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Description
Helichrysum Appendiculatum, commonly known as the Cape Gold, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to South Africa and is found in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. The plant is an evergreen shrub that grows up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of approximately 1 meter. It is a popular garden plant due to its attractive yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Helichrysum |
Appearance
Helichrysum Appendiculatum has small, narrow leaves that are gray-green in color and covered in fine hairs. The leaves are approximately 2.5 centimeters long and 0.5 centimeters wide. The plant produces clusters of yellow flowers that are approximately 2 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have a papery texture and are arranged in dense, rounded clusters at the ends of the stems. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer and can continue blooming throughout the season if deadheaded regularly.
Care Guide
Helichrysum Appendiculatum prefers full sun and well-drained soil. It is tolerant of drought and can withstand hot, dry conditions. Water the plant deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Fertilize the plant with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Helichrysum Appendiculatum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions or if over-watered. Aphids and spider mites may occasionally infest the plant but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Helichrysum Appendiculatum is native to South Africa and grows in sandy, well-drained soils in the Western and Eastern Cape provinces. It is commonly found growing on rocky outcrops and in fynbos vegetation.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Helichrysum Appendiculatum an evergreen plant?
A: Yes, Helichrysum Appendiculatum is an evergreen shrub.
Q: What is the blooming season for Helichrysum Appendiculatum?
A: Helichrysum Appendiculatum blooms from late spring to early summer.
Q: What type of soil does Helichrysum Appendiculatum prefer?
A: Helichrysum Appendiculatum prefers well-drained soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Helichrysum Appendiculatum?
A: Helichrysum Appendiculatum is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Helichrysum Italicum
- Helichrysum Odoratissimum
- Helichrysum Stoechas
References
- “Helichrysum appendiculatum.” PlantZAfrica, www.plantzafrica.com/plantgh/helichryappend.htm.
- “Helichrysum appendiculatum (L.f.) Less.” GBIF, www.gbif.org/species/5381002.
- “Helichrysum appendiculatum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/gcc-10477.
