Contents
Description
Ixeris Polycephala, also known as the Yellow Top, is a species of flowering plants in the Asteraceae family. It is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. The plant is an herbaceous perennial and grows up to 20-30 centimeters tall. The leaves of Ixeris Polycephala are simple, alternate, and lanceolate. The flowers are yellow and bloom from late summer to early autumn. The plant is easy to care for and can be grown in containers, rock gardens, or as ground cover.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ixeris |
Appearance
Ixeris Polycephala has yellow flowers that bloom in late summer to early autumn. The flowers are small and daisy-like and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The leaves are simple, alternate, and lanceolate, with a length of up to 12 centimeters and a width of up to 2.5 centimeters. The plant grows up to 20-30 centimeters tall and has a spread of up to 30-60 centimeters. The stem is slender, erect, and branching.
Care Guide
Ixeris Polycephala is easy to care for and can be grown in containers, rock gardens, or as ground cover. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Ixeris Polycephala in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Plant the Yellow Top in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Ixeris Polycephala is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ixeris Polycephala is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common issues. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and curl. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Snails and slugs: These pests can eat the leaves of the plant, causing damage. Use slug bait or handpick them to control snails and slugs.
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease can cause brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and apply a fungicide to control fungal leaf spot.
Habitat
Ixeris Polycephala is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in open areas, meadows, and on rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-drained soil and grows in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ixeris Polycephala deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I water Ixeris Polycephala?
A: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.
Q: Can Ixeris Polycephala be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers.
Q: What is the blooming season for Ixeris Polycephala?
A: The Yellow Top blooms from late summer to early autumn.
Related Plants
- Ixeris Chinensis
- Ixeris Stolonifera
- Ixeris Tamagawaensis
References
- “Ixeris polycephala (Franch.) Hand.-Mazz.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:227964-1
- “Ixeris Polycephala.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d692
- “Yellow Top.” Fine Gardening. Accessed 10 May 2021. https://www.finegardening.com/plant/yellow-top-ixeris-polycephala
