Contents
Description
Hudsonia Ericoides, commonly known as the heath goldenrod, is a low-growing evergreen shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to eastern North America and can be found in dry, sandy soils in various habitats, including coastal dunes, pine barrens, and rock outcrops. The plant grows up to 1-2 feet in height and spreads to form a dense mat-like cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Hudsonia |
Appearance
The Hudsonia Ericoides plant has small, needle-like leaves that are about 0.1-0.3 inches long and arranged in a spiral pattern along the stems. The leaves are green in color and turn reddish-brown in the winter. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are about 0.5-0.7 inches wide and have a daisy-like appearance. The plant’s fruit is a small, dry achene that is about 0.1-0.2 inches long.
Care Guide
To care for the Hudsonia Ericoides plant, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil that is sandy and acidic. The plant thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering, but it is important to water it deeply during prolonged dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary for this plant. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Hudsonia Ericoides plant is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases if grown in poorly-drained soil. It may also attract spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Hudsonia Ericoides plant is native to eastern North America and can be found in dry, sandy soils in various habitats, including coastal dunes, pine barrens, and rock outcrops. It is also commonly found in heathlands, meadows, and open woods.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Hudsonia Ericoides plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and sandy.Q: How often should the Hudsonia Ericoides plant be watered?
A: The plant is drought-tolerant and does not require much watering, but it is important to water it deeply during prolonged dry periods.Q: Does the Hudsonia Ericoides plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s bright yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.Q: Does the Hudsonia Ericoides plant require pruning?
A: The plant does not require pruning, but it can be trimmed back in the spring to promote bushier growth.
Related Plants
- Hudsonia Tomentosa
- Hudsonia Montana
- Hudsonia Australis
References
- “Hudsonia ericoides.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed April 14, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c865.
- “Hudsonia ericoides.” PlantFiles. Accessed April 14, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/58979/.
- “Hudsonia ericoides.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. Accessed April 14, 2021. https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=278.
