Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia
Contents
Description
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is a species of aster family (Asteraceae) and is native to the western United States, specifically the intermountain regions. The plant is commonly known as Tansy-leafed Tansyaster, and it is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 2 feet tall. The plant produces small, daisy-like flowers that are usually blue, purple, or lavender in color. Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is a versatile plant that can be used for ornamental purposes, attracting pollinators, and soil stabilization.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Machaeranthera |
| Species | Tanacetifolia |
Appearance
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is a bushy plant with stems that are covered in fine hairs. The leaves of the plant are deeply divided and resemble those of tansy (hence the name Tansy-leafed Tansyaster). The flowers of the plant are daisy-like and can range in color from blue to purple to lavender. The flowers are approximately 1 inch in diameter and have yellow centers. The plant blooms from late spring to early fall.
Care Guide
Water
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Soil
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and rocky soils.
Sunlight
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
Hardiness Zones
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant is grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is native to the western United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including sagebrush steppe, montane meadows, and open forests.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia is a great plant for attracting pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.
Q: Can Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is watered regularly.
Q: How often should Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia be fertilized?
A: Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia?
A: Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia should be planted in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Machaeranthera Bigelovii
- Machaeranthera Canescens
- Machaeranthera Gracilis
References
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MATA
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/machaeranthera_tanacetifolia.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/machaeranthera-tanacetifolia-tansy-leafed-tansy-aster
