Contents
Description
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is a perennial plant that belongs to the Hemerocallidaceae family. It is a hybrid cultivar that was first introduced in 1978 by Dr. Darrel Apps. This plant is known for its unique and stunning white flowers that bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have a diameter of about 15cm. Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd grows up to a height of 60cm and spreads up to 50cm. It has a clump-forming habit and is a low-maintenance plant that is ideal for borders, rock gardens, and containers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Hemerocallidaceae |
| Genus | Hemerocallis |
| Species | Gentle Shepherd |
Appearance
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd has a clump-forming habit and grows up to 60cm tall. Its leaves are green and strap-like, with a length of about 60cm and a width of 2.5cm. The flowers of Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd are trumpet-shaped and have a diameter of about 15cm. They are white in color, with a yellow-green throat. The flowers bloom in mid to late summer and have a sweet fragrance. Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is a low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
Care Guide
Water
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd requires regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and blooming. A balanced fertilizer with equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. Fertilize the plant in early spring and mid-summer for best results.
Soil
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. The plant can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but avoid planting it in heavy clay soils.
Sunlight
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and blooming. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce the number of flowers produced.
Hardiness Zones
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot, rust, and crown rot. These diseases can be prevented by practicing good sanitation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is native to North America and is commonly found in gardens and landscapes. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant is easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice among gardeners.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd?
A: Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. Overwatering can cause root rot and other fungal diseases.
Q: What is the ideal soil pH for Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd?
A: Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd?
A: Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Q: What pests and diseases are common in Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd?
A: Hemerocallis Gentle Shepherd is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as leaf spot, rust, and crown rot.
Related Plants
- Hemerocallis Stella de Oro
- Hemerocallis Pardon Me
- Hemerocallis Happy Returns
- Hemerocallis Rosy Returns
References
- University of Illinois Extension. (n.d.). Daylilies for the Home Landscape. Retrieved from https://web.extension.illinois.edu/daylily/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Hemerocallis ‘Gentle Shepherd’. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277263&isprofile=0&
- Perennial Resource. (n.d.). Hemerocallis ‘Gentle Shepherd’. Retrieved from https://www.perennialresource.com/plants/general-perennial/510-hemerocallis-gentle-shepherd
