Contents
Description
Metalasia Luteola, also known as the Golden Metalasia, is a shrub that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa and is commonly found in the fynbos biome. This evergreen shrub can grow up to 2 meters tall and 1 meter wide, and it produces yellow flowers in the spring and summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Metalasia |
Appearance
The Golden Metalasia has small, narrow leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are dark green and have a glossy texture. The flowers are yellow and are arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The shrub blooms in the spring and summer months, and the flowers attract butterflies and bees. The Golden Metalasia has a compact, rounded shape and is a popular choice for gardens and landscaping.
Care Guide
Metalasia Luteola is a hardy shrub that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. The shrub should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade and is suitable for hardiness zones 9-11. Pruning should be done in the winter months to maintain the shrub’s shape.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Golden Metalasia is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The shrub can also be affected by root rot if the soil is not well-draining. To prevent root rot, ensure that the soil is not waterlogged and that the shrub is not overwatered.
Habitat
Metalasia Luteola is native to the Western Cape Province of South Africa and is commonly found in the fynbos biome. The fynbos biome is a unique vegetation type that is characterized by a high diversity of plant species. The Golden Metalasia is adapted to the Mediterranean climate of the Western Cape Province, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Metalasia Luteola be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Metalasia Luteola can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the shrub’s root system.
Q: How often should Metalasia Luteola be fertilized?
A: Metalasia Luteola should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Is Metalasia Luteola a good choice for landscaping?
A: Yes, Metalasia Luteola is a popular choice for landscaping due to its compact, rounded shape and yellow flowers.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Metalasia Luteola?
A: Metalasia Luteola is suitable for hardiness zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Metalasia muricata
- Metalasia divergens
- Metalasia densa
- Metalasia tricolor
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/metalasia/growing-metalasia-shrubs.htm
- https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantklm/metalasialuteola.htm
- https://www.sanbi.org/creature/metalasia-luteola/
- https://www.prota4u.org/database/protav8.asp?g=pe&p=Metalasia+luteola+(L.f.)+DC.
