Pilosella Aurantiaca

Have you heard of Pilosella Aurantiaca? This plant, also known as fox-and-cubs, orange hawkweed, or devil’s paintbrush, is a member of the Asteraceae family and is native to Europe. It has now spread across North America and is known for its bright orange flowers and medicinal properties. In this article, we’ll dive into the taxonomy, appearance, care, common pests and diseases, habitat, related plants, and more of Pilosella Aurantiaca.

Taxonomy

| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Spermatophyta || Class| Magnoliopsida || Order| Asterales || Family| Asteraceae || Genus| Pilosella || Species| Pilosella Aurantiaca |

Appearance

Pilosella Aurantiaca has a rosette of leaves that are hairy and dark green in color. Its flowers are bright orange and bloom in clusters. The plant can grow up to 40cm tall and has a stem that is also hairy. The flowers have a sweet fragrance that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Care Guide

To care for Pilosella Aurantiaca, make sure to plant it in well-draining soil that is not too acidic. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moderate watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but if you want to fertilize, use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Pilosella Aurantiaca is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if planted in poor draining soil. It can also be affected by rust, a fungal disease that causes orange spots on the plant’s leaves.

Habitat

Pilosella Aurantiaca is native to Europe but has spread across North America, where it can be found in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Pilosella Aurantiaca edible?

A: Yes, it is edible and has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Q: How do I propagate Pilosella Aurantiaca?

A: You can propagate this plant by dividing its roots in the spring or by sowing its seeds in the fall.

Q: Can Pilosella Aurantiaca be grown in containers?

A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the soil is well-draining.

Q: How often should I water Pilosella Aurantiaca?

A: Water the plant moderately, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Pilosella Aurantiaca:- Pilosella officinarum- Pilosella caespitosa- Pilosella alpicola- Pilosella peleteriana

References

– “Pilosella Aurantiaca” by Missouri Botanical Garden- “Orange Hawkweed” by USDA- “Pilosella Aurantiaca” by Gardening Know How