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Description
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum, commonly known as white balsam or rabbit tobacco, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to North America and is commonly found in dry, open areas such as prairies, roadsides, and disturbed areas. The plant is an annual or biennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall. The stems are erect, thin, and hairy, with alternate leaves that are linear and can grow up to 3 inches long. The flowers are small and white, with a yellow center, and bloom from August to October.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Pseudognaphalium |
Appearance
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum is an upright plant that grows up to 3 feet tall. The stems are thin and hairy, with alternate leaves that are linear and can grow up to 3 inches long. The leaves are green and covered with fine hairs. The small flowers are white with a yellow center and bloom from August to October. The seeds are small and brown.
Care Guide
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:- Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil and does not like to be overwatered. Water the plant deeply once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites or aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum is native to North America and is commonly found in dry, open areas such as prairies, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is an annual or biennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum a perennial plant?
A: No, it is an annual or biennial plant.Q: What are the common pests that affect Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum?
A: Spider mites and aphids can occasionally affect this plant.Q: What is the preferred soil pH for Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum?
A: This plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum?
A: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Asteraceae family:- Achillea millefolium (common yarrow)- Echinacea purpurea (purple coneflower)- Rudbeckia hirta (black-eyed Susan)- Solidago canadensis (Canada goldenrod)
References
– “Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum” – Missouri Botanical Garden- “Rabbit Tobacco” – Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center- “Pseudognaphalium leucocephalum” – Plant Finder – Dave’s Garden.
