Contents
Description
Pentachaeta is a genus of flowering plants native to California in the United States. It belongs to the Asteraceae family, which includes sunflowers, daisies, and asters. The name Pentachaeta is derived from Greek, meaning “five hairs,” referring to the five bristles on the end of each seed. There are seven species in the genus, with Pentachaeta aurea being the most well-known.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pentachaeta |
Appearance
Pentachaeta plants are small, herbaceous perennials that grow up to 1 foot tall. They have lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in a rosette at the base of the stem. The stems are slender and usually branched. The flowers are yellow-orange with five petals and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. Each petal is 1/2 to 3/4 inch long. The fruit is a small achene with five bristles on the end.
Care Guide
Water
Pentachaeta plants prefer well-draining soil and should be watered regularly during the growing season, but not overwatered. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between watering.
Fertilization
Pentachaeta plants do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Soil
Pentachaeta plants prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. They do not tolerate heavy or poorly-draining soil.
Sunlight
Pentachaeta plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They do not tolerate deep shade.
Hardiness Zones
Pentachaeta plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pentachaeta plants are relatively disease and pest-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered.
Habitat
Pentachaeta plants are native to California and are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, chaparral, and coastal scrub. They are often found growing in rocky, well-draining soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Pentachaeta plants easy to grow?
A: Yes, Pentachaeta plants are relatively easy to grow as long as they are given well-draining soil and regular watering.
Q: What is the best time to plant Pentachaeta?
A: The best time to plant Pentachaeta is in the spring after the last frost.
Q: How often should Pentachaeta plants be fertilized?
A: Pentachaeta plants do not require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring is sufficient.
Q: Can Pentachaeta plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pentachaeta plants can be grown in containers as long as they are given well-draining soil and regular watering.
Related Plants
- Pentachaeta bellidiflora
- Pentachaeta lyonii
- Pentachaeta macrocephala
- Pentachaeta neomexicana
References
- “Pentachaeta.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 10 June 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pentachaeta.
- “Pentachaeta aurea.” Plant Finder, Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b440.
