Leptinella Tenella
Contents
Description
Leptinella Tenella is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Aster family. It is commonly known as “Brass Buttons” due to its small, button-like flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. The plant’s leaves are fern-like and bright green in color, measuring about 1-2 cm in length.This plant is native to New Zealand but has been introduced to several other countries, including the United States, where it has become a popular ground cover due to its low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Leptinella |
Appearance
Leptinella Tenella is a small plant that grows up to 5-10 cm in height and spreads up to 30-45 cm in width. It has small, button-like flowers that are yellow-green in color and measure about 0.5-1 cm in diameter. The leaves of the plant are fern-like and bright green in color, measuring about 1-2 cm in length.
Care Guide
Leptinella Tenella is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Brass Buttons:Water: Water your plant regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Plant your Brass Buttons in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.Hardiness Zones: Leptinella Tenella is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leptinella Tenella is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be prone to root rot if overwatered. To prevent root rot, avoid overwatering and make sure your plant is planted in well-draining soil.
Habitat
Leptinella Tenella is native to New Zealand and can be found growing in rocky areas, alpine meadows, and forests. It prefers well-drained soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Leptinella Tenella a good ground cover?A: Yes, Leptinella Tenella is a great ground cover due to its low maintenance requirements and spreading growth habit.Q: Can I grow Leptinella Tenella in full sun?A: Yes, Leptinella Tenella can tolerate full sun in cooler climates but prefers partial shade.Q: How often should I fertilize my Brass Buttons?A: Fertilize your plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Is Leptinella Tenella prone to pests and diseases?A: No, Leptinella Tenella is generally pest and disease-free but can be prone to root rot if overwatered.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Leptinella Tenella:
- Leptinella Squalida
- Leptinella Platts Black
- Leptinella Nana
- Leptinella Gracilis
References
- “Leptinella Tenella – Brass Buttons.” Gardenia. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021, https://www.gardenia.net/plant/leptinella-tenella-brass-buttons.
- “Leptinella Tenella.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277100&isprofile=0&.
- “Leptinella Tenella.” Plant Finder. Accessed 14 Sept. 2021, https://www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/3661/brass-buttons/.
