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Description
Heterotheca Subaxillaris, commonly known as Camphorweed or Bitterweed, is a flowering plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has yellow, daisy-like flowers that bloom from July to November.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Heterotheca |
Appearance
The leaves of Heterotheca Subaxillaris are green and hairy, with a strong scent resembling camphor, hence the name Camphorweed. The flowers are yellow, with a diameter of about 1 inch, and have both ray and disk flowers. The plant produces small, black, and oval-shaped seeds.
Care Guide
Heterotheca Subaxillaris is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can be grown in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils, as long as they are well-drained. The plant prefers full sun exposure and can tolerate drought conditions, making it an ideal plant for xeriscaping. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-10, making it suitable for most regions in North America.
Watering should be done sparingly, as the plant can tolerate dry conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can kill the plant. Fertilization is not necessary, but if desired, a well-balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring. Pruning is not necessary, but the plant can be trimmed after flowering to maintain its shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heterotheca Subaxillaris is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Heterotheca Subaxillaris is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It is a common plant in the Great Plains region of the United States, where it is often used in prairie restoration projects.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heterotheca Subaxillaris an invasive plant?
A: No, Heterotheca Subaxillaris is not considered an invasive plant. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of habitats, but it does not aggressively spread or displace native plants.
Q: Can Heterotheca Subaxillaris be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Heterotheca Subaxillaris can be grown in containers as long as they are well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Heterotheca Subaxillaris be watered?
A: Heterotheca Subaxillaris should be watered sparingly, as it can tolerate dry conditions. Watering once a week is usually sufficient, but the frequency may vary depending on the climate and soil conditions.
Q: How can I propagate Heterotheca Subaxillaris?
A: Heterotheca Subaxillaris can be propagated by seeds or by dividing the plant in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Heterotheca Canescens
- Heterotheca Fulcrata
- Heterotheca Villosa
- Heterotheca Grandiflora
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Heterotheca Subaxillaris (Lam.) Britt. & Rusby. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=HESU2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Heterotheca Subaxillaris. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c550
- Illinois Wildflowers. (n.d.). Heterotheca Subaxillaris. Retrieved from https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/hetero_x.htm
