Contents
Description
Ixeris stolonifera, commonly known as creeping daisy or strawberry groundsel, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to East Asia and can be found in China, Japan, and Korea. The plant has a long, creeping stem that can reach up to 60 cm in length. The stem produces small, yellow flowers that bloom from late summer to early autumn. The leaves are green, serrated, and heart-shaped, and they grow in rosettes at the base of the stem. The plant is known for its spreading habit and can be grown as a groundcover or in hanging baskets.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Ixeris |
Appearance
Ixeris stolonifera is a low-growing plant that can reach a height of 15 cm and a spread of up to 60 cm. The stem is long and creeping, and it produces small, yellow flowers that are about 1 cm in diameter. The leaves are green, serrated, and heart-shaped, and they grow in rosettes at the base of the stem. The plant is known for its spreading habit and can be grown as a groundcover or in hanging baskets. It is a low maintenance plant and is perfect for beginner gardeners.
Care Guide
Water: Ixeris stolonifera prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. You can fertilize it once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil: Ixeris stolonifera prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can use a potting mix that is specifically formulated for indoor plants.
Sunlight: The plant prefers bright, indirect sunlight. You can place it near a window that receives morning or evening sun.
Hardiness Zones: Ixeris stolonifera can grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ixeris stolonifera is a relatively pest-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. To prevent these pests, you can regularly mist the plant with water and keep it in a well-ventilated area. The plant may also be prone to leaf spot and powdery mildew if it is kept in a damp environment. To prevent these diseases, make sure to water the plant from the base and avoid getting the leaves wet.
Habitat
Ixeris stolonifera is native to East Asia and can be found in China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in grasslands, forests, and along roadsides. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ixeris stolonifera a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Ixeris stolonifera is a low maintenance plant and is perfect for beginner gardeners.
Q: Can I grow Ixeris stolonifera indoors?
A: Yes, Ixeris stolonifera can be grown indoors as long as it is placed near a window that receives bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Ixeris stolonifera?
A: Ixeris stolonifera prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Ixeris stolonifera?
A: Ixeris stolonifera is relatively pest-resistant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and mealybugs. It may also be prone to leaf spot and powdery mildew if it is kept in a damp environment.
Related Plants
- Ixeris chinensis
- Ixeris dentata
- Ixeris debilis
- Ixeris laevigata
References
- Encyclopedia of Garden Plants by Christopher Brickell (2019)
- The Complete Garden Flower Book by Catriona Tudor Erler (2016)
- Flora of China by Wu Zheng-yi et al. (2011)
