Contents
Description
Pilosella Aurantiaca Subsp. Aurantiaca, also known as Fox-and-Cubs, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. It is native to Europe and can be found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. The plant produces bright orange flowers that bloom from late spring to early summer. Its leaves are basal, rosette-shaped, and hairy. The plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and spreads through its rhizomes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pilosella |
Appearance
The plant has basal, rosette-shaped leaves that are hairy and dark green in color. The leaves can grow up to 15 cm in length. The plant produces bright orange flowers that have a diameter of 2-3 cm. The flowers bloom in clusters and have black centers. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads through its rhizomes. The plant is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Water: The plant requires moderate watering. It thrives in well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
Soil: The plant requires well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. It prefers sandy, loamy soil that is slightly acidic.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is relatively pest-free. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering. The plant can also attract aphids, which can be controlled by spraying with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The plant is native to Europe and can be found in meadows, grasslands, and rocky slopes. It prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. The plant is highly attractive to bees and other pollinators and is often grown in gardens for its bright orange flowers.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pilosella Aurantiaca Subsp. Aurantiaca toxic to humans or pets?
A: No, the plant is not toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Can Pilosella Aurantiaca Subsp. Aurantiaca be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and it receives moderate watering.
Q: How often should Pilosella Aurantiaca Subsp. Aurantiaca be fertilized?
A: The plant does not require fertilization. However, you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
Q: Can Pilosella Aurantiaca Subsp. Aurantiaca tolerate drought?
A: The plant prefers moist soil and does not tolerate drought well.
Related Plants
- Pilosella Officinarum
- Pilosella Echioides
- Pilosella Caespitosa
References
- “Pilosella aurantiaca.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287297. Accessed 8 June 2021.
- “Pilosella aurantiaca.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/101286/Pilosella-aurantiaca/Details. Accessed 8 June 2021.
- “Fox-and-cubs.” Plantlife, www.plantlife.org.uk/uk/discover-wild-plants-nature/plant-fungi-species/fox-and-cubs. Accessed 8 June 2021.
