Podospermum

Description

Podospermum is a genus of plants in the family Asteraceae. They are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. The name “Podospermum” comes from the Greek words “podos” meaning foot and “sperma” meaning seed, in reference to the shape of the seeds.The plants in this genus have a rosette of leaves at the base and a tall stem with yellow flowers in an umbel shape. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall. The leaves are often deeply lobed and green.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Podospermum plants can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stem is usually green and has a few branches at the top. The leaves are usually deeply lobed and green. The flowers are yellow and are arranged in an umbel shape at the top of the stem. The flowers bloom in the summer and fall.

Care Guide

Water

Podospermum plants prefer well-drained soil and do not like to be over-watered. Water the plants when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Fertilization

Fertilize Podospermum plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Soil

Podospermum plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Sunlight

Podospermum plants prefer full sun to partial shade.

Hardiness Zones

Podospermum plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Podospermum plants are generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites.

Habitat

Podospermum plants are native to Europe, Africa, and Asia. They can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides.

Question and Answer

Q: How tall do Podospermum plants grow?

A: Podospermum plants can grow up to 3 feet tall.

Q: What type of soil do Podospermum plants prefer?

A: Podospermum plants prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Q: What pests and diseases are Podospermum plants prone to?

A: Podospermum plants are generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, they can be affected by powdery mildew, rust, and spider mites.

Q: What is the meaning of the name “Podospermum”?

A: The name “Podospermum” comes from the Greek words “podos” meaning foot and “sperma” meaning seed, in reference to the shape of the seeds.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants in the Asteraceae family:

• Achillea
• Artemisia
• Bellis perennis
• Chrysanthemum
• Erigeron
• Tanacetum

References

• “Podospermum.” Flora of North America.
• “Podospermum.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
• “Podospermum.” Royal Horticultural Society.