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Description
Marshallia Graminifolia, commonly known as grassleaf Barbara’s buttons or grassleaf Barbara’s buttons, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. It is a wildflower that blooms in late summer and early fall, producing small white flowers that are arranged in clusters at the top of its stems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Marshallia |
Appearance
The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant grows up to 2 feet tall and spreads up to 1 foot wide. It has long and narrow leaves that are about 1 to 2 feet long and 1/8 to 1/4 inch wide. The leaves are grass-like in appearance and are green in color. Its flowers are small and white, measuring about 1/2 inch in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The plant blooms in late summer and early fall, and the flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant is easy to care for and maintain. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. It is important to avoid overwatering the plant as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: The plant does not require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may not bloom as well if it does not receive enough sunlight.
Hardiness Zones: The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant is hardy in USDA zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Additionally, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant is native to the southeastern United States, particularly in Florida, Alabama, Georgia, and South Carolina. It grows in open, sandy areas such as pine forests, savannas, and meadows. It can also grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides and fields.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant invasive?
A: No, the grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant is not considered invasive.
Q: Can the plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-drained soil and moderate watering.
Q: How often should the plant be fertilized?
A: The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant does not require heavy fertilization. You can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote healthy growth.
Q: How long does the plant bloom?
A: The grassleaf Barbara’s buttons plant blooms in late summer and early fall, typically from August to October.
Related Plants
- Marshallia Grandiflora
- Marshallia Obovata
- Marshallia Trinervia
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=MAGR5
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/grassleaf-barbaras-buttons/grassleaf-barbaras-buttons-plant.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279384&isprofile=0&
