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Description
Packera Fendleri, also known as Fendler’s ragwort, is a species of flowering plant in the aster family. It is native to North America and can be found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. This herbaceous perennial plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Packera |
Appearance
Packera Fendleri has a basal rosette of leaves that are green and can be hairy or smooth. The leaves are usually toothed or lobed and can grow up to 6 inches long. The yellow flowers bloom in the spring and summer and are about 1 inch in diameter. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Care Guide
Packera Fendleri prefers well-draining soils and partial shade but can also tolerate full sun. It requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every month. The plant can be propagated by division in the spring or by seed in the fall. It is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Packera Fendleri can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. Pests such as aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. To prevent these issues, ensure proper air circulation around the plant and avoid overwatering. In severe cases, fungicides or insecticides may be necessary.
Habitat
Packera Fendleri can be found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soils and can tolerate dry conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Packera Fendleri an invasive species?
A: No, Packera Fendleri is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Packera Fendleri be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Packera Fendleri can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: Does Packera Fendleri attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of Packera Fendleri can attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Packera Fendleri be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Some Native American tribes have used Packera Fendleri for medicinal purposes, but it is not commonly used in modern medicine.
Related Plants
- Packera aurea
- Packera bellidifolia
- Packera candidissima
- Packera obovata
- Packera paupercula
References
- Bonnie J. Gisel, “Packera fendleri,” in Fire Effects Information System, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station, Fire Sciences Laboratory (2018).
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/packera_fendleri.shtml
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PAFE3
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287510
