Machaeranthera Tanacetifolia

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

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