Contents
Description
Mauranthemum is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly known as the “Mediterranean chrysanthemum” or “Mauritanian chrysanthemum”. This plant produces large, daisy-like flowers that come in various shades of yellow, orange, and red. It is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and its ability to thrive in hot and dry conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Mauranthemum |
Appearance
Mauranthemum is a perennial plant that grows up to 60 cm tall. Its leaves are green and have serrated edges. The flowers are daisy-like and have a diameter of up to 7 cm. They come in various shades of yellow, orange, and red and have a dark center. The plant blooms from late spring to early summer.
Care Guide
Mauranthemum is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for growing and caring for this plant:
Water
Mauranthemum prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch, but do not let the soil become waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Do not fertilize the plant during the winter months.
Soil
Mauranthemum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does not like to be planted in heavy clay soil.
Sunlight
Mauranthemum prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly.
Hardiness Zones
Mauranthemum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F (-6°C) but may require protection from frost and cold winds.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mauranthemum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and root rot if it is overwatered or planted in poorly draining soil. Aphids and spider mites may also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Mauranthemum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky hillsides, meadows, and along the coast. It is a drought-tolerant plant and can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should Mauranthemum be watered?
A: Mauranthemum should be watered when the soil is dry to the touch. Do not let the soil become waterlogged.
Q: What is the ideal soil type for Mauranthemum?
A: Mauranthemum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but does not like to be planted in heavy clay soil.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Mauranthemum?
A: Mauranthemum prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade. It requires at least 6 hours of sunlight per day to bloom properly. It is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can survive in hot and dry conditions.
Q: Can Mauranthemum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mauranthemum can be grown in containers as long as the containers have drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Chrysanthemum
- Leucanthemum
- Tanacetum
- Achillea
References
- “Mediterranean chrysanthemum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 22 April 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280242&isprofile=0&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=&=
- “Mauranthemum.” Plant List. Accessed 22 April 2021. <http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Compositae/Mauranthemum/>
- “Mauranthemum.” RHS. Accessed 22 April 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/161075/Mauranthemum/Details>
