Plectocephalus
Contents
Description
Plectocephalus is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This genus comprises only one species, Plectocephalus americanus, which is native to North America. It is commonly known as the prairie coneflower or the prairie pincushion.The prairie coneflower is a perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall. It has erect stems that are covered with fine hairs and produce yellow flowers that bloom from May to July. The flowers have a conical shape and measure about 2 inches in diameter. The leaves of the prairie coneflower are lanceolate and covered with dense hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Plectocephalus |
| Species | Plectocephalus americanus |
Appearance
The prairie coneflower has a striking appearance that makes it a popular choice for gardens and landscaping. Its yellow flowers have a conical shape and a prominent central cone that is surrounded by ray flowers. The cone is brown and covered with prickly bracts. The leaves of the prairie coneflower are lanceolate and covered with dense hairs, giving them a grayish-green appearance.
Care Guide
The prairie coneflower is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: The prairie coneflower is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.- Fertilization: The prairie coneflower does not require much fertilization. You can fertilize it once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.- Soil: The prairie coneflower prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.- Sunlight: The prairie coneflower prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: The prairie coneflower is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The prairie coneflower is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be affected by the following pests and diseases:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves. You can control aphids by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the plant. You can control powdery mildew by removing affected leaves and spraying the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
The prairie coneflower is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers areas with well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the prairie coneflower deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the prairie coneflower is deer-resistant.
Q: Can I grow the prairie coneflower in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the prairie coneflower in a container as long as it has enough room to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Q: How often should I divide the prairie coneflower?
A: You can divide the prairie coneflower every 3 to 4 years in the spring or fall.
Q: Can I propagate the prairie coneflower from seeds?
A: Yes, you can propagate the prairie coneflower from seeds. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall in well-draining soil.
Related Plants
– Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower)- Ratibida columnifera (prairie coneflower)- Gaillardia aristata (blanketflower)
References
– USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Plectocephalus americanus. Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=plam- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Plectocephalus americanus. Retrieved August 18, 2021, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280155&isprofile=0&pt=7
