Contents
Description
Ozothamnus is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it is commonly known as “cotton bush” due to the fluffy white or pinkish flowers that resemble cotton. The plant is known for its ability to grow in harsh and arid environments, making it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping in dry regions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Kingdom| Phylum| Class| Order| Family| Genus||————|———–|———–|———–|———–|———–|———–|| Eukaryota| Plantae| Angiosperms | Eudicots| Asterales | Asteraceae | Ozothamnus |
Appearance
Ozothamnus typically grows as a shrub or small tree, ranging from 0.5 to 5 meters in height. It has narrow leaves that are silvery-grey in color and covered in fine hairs. The flowers are borne in clusters at the ends of the branches and are usually white, pink or purple. They are small and daisy-like, with a fluffy appearance due to the numerous stamens that surround the central disk.
Care Guide
To care for Ozothamnus, it is important to plant it in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Water regularly during the growing season, but allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Fertilize in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Ozothamnus is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10. If grown in colder climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ozothamnus is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, thrips, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Ozothamnus is native to Australia and New Zealand, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including dry forests, heathlands, and coastal sand dunes. It is known for its ability to tolerate harsh and arid conditions, making it a popular choice for xeriscaping and landscaping in dry regions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is the best time of year to prune Ozothamnus?
A: Ozothamnus can be pruned lightly after flowering to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth.
Q: Can Ozothamnus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ozothamnus can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter months in colder climates.
Q: How often should Ozothamnus be fertilized?
A: Ozothamnus should be fertilized once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How much sunlight does Ozothamnus need?
A: Ozothamnus prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Related Plants
– Helichrysum italicum- Euryops pectinatus- Grevillea- Leucadendron- Protea
References
– “Ozothamnus.” The Plant List. Accessed August 10, 2021. http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Compositae/Ozothamnus/.- “Ozothamnus.” Australian Native Plants Society (Australia). Accessed August 10, 2021. https://anpsa.org.au/o-umb.html.- “Ozothamnus.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/115028/Ozothamnus/Details.
