Lasthenia

Description

Lasthenia is a genus of plants that belong to the Asteraceae family. They are commonly known as goldfields, and they are native to California. Lasthenia species are annual and herbaceous plants that are characterized by their bright yellow flowers. The flowers grow in clusters and have disk and ray florets. The leaves are alternate and pinnately lobed. Goldfields bloom in the spring and early summer, and they are commonly found in grasslands and open areas.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Lasthenia

Appearance

Lasthenia plants have a height of 30 to 60 centimeters. The flowers have a diameter of 1 to 2 centimeters, and they are bright yellow. The leaves are alternate and pinnately lobed with a length of 2 to 6 centimeters. The stem is slender and hairy. Goldfields have a taproot system and grow in clumps. The flowers bloom in the spring and early summer, and they attract bees and other pollinators.

Care Guide

Lasthenia plants require moderate watering and well-draining soil. They prefer full sun exposure and can tolerate partially shaded areas. Goldfields are hardy plants that grow in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10. They do not require fertilization, but adding compost to the soil can improve their growth. Pruning is not necessary, but removing dead flowers can promote more blooms.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lasthenia plants are susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and thrips. These pests can cause damage to the leaves and flowers, and they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Goldfields are also prone to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.

Habitat

Lasthenia plants are native to California and are commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and open areas. They grow in sandy or rocky soil and can tolerate drought conditions. Goldfields are often used in wildflower gardens and as ornamental plants.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the blooming season of Lasthenia plants?

A: Lasthenia plants bloom in the spring and early summer.

Q: What is the preferred sunlight exposure for Lasthenia plants?

A: Lasthenia plants prefer full sun exposure.

Q: How can I control spider mites on Lasthenia plants?

A: Spider mites on Lasthenia plants can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Lasthenia plants?

A: Lasthenia plants are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 7 to 10.

Related Plants

• Encelia
• Acmispon
• Artemisia
• Brodiaea

References

• Calflora: Lasthenia
• USDA: Lasthenia
• Gardening Know How: Growing Goldfields
• Wildflower.org: Lasthenia