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Description
Krigia cespitosa, commonly known as tufted dwarf dandelion, is a perennial plant that belongs to the sunflower family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom from May to August. Krigia cespitosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Krigia |
Appearance
Krigia cespitosa has a basal rosette of leaves that are dark green and spatula-shaped. The leaves are about 1-3 inches long and 0.5-1 inch wide, with toothed margins. The plant produces stems that are 4-16 inches tall and bear one or more flower heads. The flower heads are about 0.5-1 inch wide and consist of yellow ray and disk florets. The plant produces small achenes that are 0.1-0.2 inches long and have a pappus of white bristles.
Care Guide
Krigia cespitosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Krigia cespitosa prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.Fertilization: Krigia cespitosa does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Krigia cespitosa prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: Krigia cespitosa prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Krigia cespitosa is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Krigia cespitosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot diseases. Some common pests that can affect this plant include aphids, slugs, and snails.
Habitat
Krigia cespitosa is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate occasional flooding.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Krigia cespitosa grow in containers?
A: Yes, Krigia cespitosa can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I water Krigia cespitosa?
A: Krigia cespitosa prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.Q: Is Krigia cespitosa deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Krigia cespitosa is deer-resistant.Q: Can Krigia cespitosa be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Krigia cespitosa can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Krigia cespitosa:
- Krigia biflora
- Krigia virginica
- Krigia montana
- Krigia occidentalis
References
– “Krigia cespitosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287942&isprofile=0&basic=krigia%20cespitosa- “Tufted Dwarf Dandelion (Krigia cespitosa).” Illinois Wildflowers. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/tufted_dd.htm- “Krigia cespitosa.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=KRCE2
