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Description
Iva Axillaris, also known as Povertyweed or Wingstem, is a hardy perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found growing in wetlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. The plant can grow up to six feet tall and has a woody stem with branches that produce clusters of small yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Iva |
Appearance
Iva Axillaris has a distinct appearance with its tall, slender stem and branches that produce clusters of small yellow flowers. The leaves are lance-shaped and can grow up to ten inches long with serrated edges. The stem and branches are woody and can be green or reddish-brown in color. The plant blooms from July to September and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Iva Axillaris is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips to keep your plant healthy:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so ensure that it is watered regularly. However, avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.- Soil: The plant can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil with a pH level of 6.0 to 7.5.- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. Ensure that it receives at least six hours of sunlight daily.- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Iva Axillaris is a hardy plant that is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common issues that can affect the plant include:- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause white powdery spots on the leaves. Ensure that the plant is not overcrowded and has good air circulation.- Rust: This fungal disease can cause orange or brown spots on the leaves. Remove any affected leaves and ensure that the plant has good air circulation.- Aphids: These insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control the infestation.
Habitat
Iva Axillaris is native to North America and can be found growing in wetlands, meadows, and along riverbanks. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding. It is also drought-tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Iva Axillaris a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Iva Axillaris blooms from July to September and attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Iva Axillaris tolerate flooding?
A: Yes, Iva Axillaris prefers moist soil and can tolerate flooding.
Q: Does Iva Axillaris require frequent fertilization?
A: No, Iva Axillaris does not require frequent fertilization. However, adding a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Iva Axillaris?
A: Iva Axillaris is hardy in zones 5 to 9.
Related Plants
– Iva frutescens (Marsh Elder)- Iva annua (Annual Sumpweed)- Iva imbricata (Delta Sumpweed)
References
– “Iva Axillaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j820- “Iva Axillaris.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ivax- “Iva Axillaris.” USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=IVAX
