Heterosperma

Description

Heterosperma is a plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also known as camphorweed, wild-balsam apple, and camphor weed. This plant is native to North America and can be found in the southern United States and Mexico. The plant produces yellow flowers that bloom from summer to fall. The flowers have a diameter of around 1 inch and are daisy-like in appearance. The leaves of the plant are linear and can grow up to 2 inches long. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide.

Taxonomic Information

Domain: Eukaryota

Kingdom: Plantae

Phylum: Spermatophyta

Class: Magnoliopsida

Order: Asterales

Family: Asteraceae

Genus: Heterosperma

Appearance

The Heterosperma plant has a bushy appearance with thin, linear leaves. The leaves are grayish-green and are covered with fine hairs. The plant produces yellow flowers that have a diameter of around 1 inch. The flowers have a daisy-like appearance and are composed of ray and disk flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. The flowers bloom from summer to fall, and the plant produces seeds that can be used for propagation.

Care Guide

Water: Heterosperma requires moderate watering during the growing season. The plant should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is important not to let the soil become too wet.

Fertilization: Heterosperma does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth and flowering.

Soil: Heterosperma prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant can tolerate a range of soil types, but it is important that the soil is not too heavy or compacted.

Sunlight: Heterosperma requires full sun to thrive. The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it may not produce as many flowers.

Hardiness Zones: Heterosperma is hardy in USDA zones 7-10. The plant can tolerate a range of temperatures, but it may not survive in areas with extreme cold.

Common Pests & Diseases

Heterosperma is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Heterosperma is native to North America and can be found in the southern United States and Mexico. The plant grows in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Heterosperma be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Heterosperma can be grown in containers. The plant requires well-draining soil and moderate watering.

Q: Can Heterosperma tolerate drought?

A: Heterosperma can tolerate some drought, but it prefers moderate watering during the growing season.

Q: How often should Heterosperma be fertilized?

A: Heterosperma does not require frequent fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote growth and flowering.

Q: Is Heterosperma deer-resistant?

A: Heterosperma is not deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if planted in areas with high deer populations.

Related Plants

• Coreopsis
• Gaillardia
• Rudbeckia
• Solidago

References

• “Heterosperma.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e800.
• “Heterosperma.” PlantFiles. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56553/.
• “Heterosperma.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Accessed July 22, 2021. https://aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/plantanswers/publications/wildflowers/heterosperma/heterosperma.html.