Contents
Description
Pilosella Cymosa, also known as downy hawkweed or pom-pom weed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. The plant is native to Europe and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. It is characterized by its basal rosette of hairy leaves and yellow pom-pom-like flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pilosella |
Appearance
The leaves of Pilosella Cymosa are hairy and form a basal rosette that can grow up to 15 cm in diameter. The stem of the plant is also hairy and can grow up to 50 cm tall. The yellow pom-pom-like flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and bloom from late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by achenes, which are small dry fruits that resemble seeds.
Care Guide
Water: Pilosella Cymosa prefers well-draining soil and requires regular watering during the growing season. However, overwatering can cause the roots to rot, so it’s important to ensure that the soil is not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage growth and flowering.
Soil: Pilosella Cymosa prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Pilosella Cymosa is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pilosella Cymosa is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant is grown in well-drained soil and is not overcrowded.
Habitat
Pilosella Cymosa is native to Europe and can be found growing in open meadows, rocky slopes, and disturbed areas. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pilosella Cymosa a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Pilosella Cymosa is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow.
Q: Can Pilosella Cymosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Pilosella Cymosa can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should Pilosella Cymosa be fertilized?
A: Pilosella Cymosa does not require regular fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth and flowering.
Q: Can Pilosella Cymosa be propagated by division?
A: Yes, Pilosella Cymosa can be propagated by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Pilosella Aurantiaca
- Pilosella Officinarum
- Pilosella Echioides
References
- CABI. (2021). Pilosella cymosa (downy hawkweed). Invasive Species Compendium. https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/117954
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Pilosella cymosa. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281008&isprofile=0&
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. (2019). Pilosella cymosa. Flora Europaea. http://rbg-web2.rbge.org.uk/cgi-bin/nph-readbtree.pl/feout?FAMILY_XREF=&GENUS_XREF=Pilosella&SPECIES_XREF=cymosa&TAXON_NAME_XREF=&RANK=
