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Description:
Packera Tampicana, also known as Tampico ragwort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Mexico and can be found growing in the states of Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosi. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Packera |
Appearance:
Packera Tampicana grows up to 2 feet tall and has a spread of 1-2 feet. It has a clumping growth habit and produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The leaves are green, hairy, and toothed, and the stems are thick and sturdy. This plant is also known for its strong, distinct odor.
Care Guide:
Packera Tampicana is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you care for your Tampico ragwort:
- Water: This plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Packera Tampicana does not require fertilizer, but you can apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy or clay soils.
- Sunlight: Packera Tampicana thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause the plant to become leggy and weak.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can tolerate temperatures as low as 20°F.
Common Pests & Diseases:
Packera Tampicana is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly-draining soil. Here are some common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:
- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering or planting in poorly-draining soil. Symptoms include wilting, yellowing leaves, and blackened roots.
- Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and stems, causing them to become distorted and discolored.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests feed on the underside of the leaves, causing them to become speckled and yellowed.
Habitat:
Packera Tampicana is native to Mexico and can be found growing in the states of Tamaulipas and San Luis Potosi. It grows in a variety of habitats, including open fields, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas. This plant is tolerant of drought and can survive in hot, dry conditions.
Question and Answer:
Q: Can Packera Tampicana be grown indoors?
A: While this plant prefers to be grown outdoors, it can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.
Q: Is Packera Tampicana poisonous?
A: No, this plant is not poisonous, but it should not be consumed as it can cause digestive upset.
Q: Can Packera Tampicana be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, this plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the spring or summer.
Q: Does Packera Tampicana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, this plant is attractive to bees and butterflies and can help support pollinator populations.
Related Plants:
- Packera glabella
- Packera millefolium
- Packera obovata
- Packera paupercula
References:
- “Packera Tampicana,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed August 19, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=284138&isprofile=0&basic=Packera%20tampicana.
- “Packera Tampicana,” Plant Delights Nursery, accessed August 19, 2021, https://www.plantdelights.com/products/packera-tampicana.
- “Tampico Ragwort,” Texas Native Plants Database, accessed August 19, 2021, https://txnativeplants.org/plant-guide/tampico-ragwort/.
