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Description
Heterolepis Aliena is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is commonly known as the Prairie Bishop’s Weed or the Prairie False Golden Aster. It is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States and can grow up to 3 feet tall. This plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Heterolepis |
Appearance
Heterolepis Aliena has narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 1 inch wide. The leaves are light green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces yellow flowers that are about half an inch in diameter and have a daisy-like appearance. The flowers bloom in late summer to early fall and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The stems are thin and wiry and are covered in fine hairs.
Care Guide
Water
Heterolepis Aliena prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. The soil should be kept moist, but not waterlogged. During the hot summer months, the plant may require more frequent watering to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilization
Heterolepis Aliena does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring. Be sure to follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the plant.
Soil
Heterolepis Aliena prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils, as long as they are well-draining.
Sunlight
Heterolepis Aliena prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers in shady conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Heterolepis Aliena is hardy in USDA zones 3-9. It can tolerate cold temperatures and can survive frost and freezes.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heterolepis Aliena is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew in humid conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, avoid overhead watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If powdery mildew does occur, it can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Heterolepis Aliena is native to the central and eastern regions of the United States, where it grows in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heterolepis Aliena a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Heterolepis Aliena is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators to your garden.
Q: Can Heterolepis Aliena be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Heterolepis Aliena can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s roots and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Heterolepis Aliena require pruning?
A: Heterolepis Aliena does not require pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged stems to improve the plant’s appearance.
Q: Can Heterolepis Aliena tolerate drought?
A: Heterolepis Aliena can tolerate some drought, but it prefers to be kept moist. During extended periods of drought, you may need to water the plant more frequently.
Related Plants
- Heterolepis Decurrent
- Heterolepis Foliosa
- Heterolepis Incisa
- Heterolepis Pinnatifida
References
- “Heterolepis Aliena.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- “Heterolepis Aliena.” Plant Finder. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.monrovia.com
- “Heterolepis Aliena.” Fine Gardening. Accessed 15 September 2021. www.finegardening.com
