Contents
Description
Leptinella Nana, also known as Brass Buttons or Miniature Brass Buttons, is a creeping evergreen perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to New Zealand and is commonly grown as a ground cover plant. The plant grows up to 5 cm in height and 60 cm in width, forming a dense mat of tiny green leaves. The leaves are fern-like and have a feathery appearance, which makes them an attractive addition to any garden.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Angiospermae |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Leptinella |
Appearance
Leptinella Nana has tiny green leaves that are feathery and fern-like in appearance. The leaves are arranged in a rosette pattern, forming a dense mat that covers the ground. The plant produces small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer months. The flowers are daisy-like in appearance and are held on short stems above the foliage.
Care Guide
Leptinella Nana requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water
Leptinella Nana requires regular watering to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important to avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil
Leptinella Nana prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be slightly acidic with a pH range of 5.5 to 6.5.
Sunlight
The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade but may not flower as well in darker areas.
Hardiness Zones
Leptinella Nana is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leptinella Nana is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by powdery mildew and rust if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant.
Habitat
Leptinella Nana is native to New Zealand and is commonly grown as a ground cover plant in gardens around the world. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Leptinella Nana be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Leptinella Nana can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Leptinella Nana be fertilized?
A: Leptinella Nana does not require regular fertilization, but a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: How can I control aphids on Leptinella Nana?
A: Aphids can be controlled by spraying the plant with a solution of water and dish soap or neem oil. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can also be introduced to the garden to control the pest.
Q: Can Leptinella Nana be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Leptinella Nana can be propagated by division in the spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate the clumps into smaller sections, making sure each section has roots attached.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Leptinella Nana:
- Leptinella Platt’s Black
- Leptinella Squalida
- Leptinella Pusilla
References
- “Leptinella Nana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281825&isprofile=0&basic=leptinella>.
- “Brass Buttons – Leptinella Nana.” Gardenia.net. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021. <https://www.gardenia.net/plant/brass-buttons-leptinella-nana>.
- “Leptinella Nana (Brass Buttons).” Gardeners’ World Magazine. Accessed 25 Aug. 2021. <https://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/leptinella-nana/>.
