Contents
Description
Psilocarphus Elatior is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is also known as slender woollyheads or slender woolly marbles. This plant is native to North America and can be found in sandy areas, rocky slopes, and dry washes. It is an annual herb that can grow up to 40 cm in height. The stem of this plant is slender and covered with white, cottony hairs. The leaves are narrow, linear, and around 2-5 cm in length. The flowers of Psilocarphus Elatior are small and white or yellowish in color. They grow in clusters at the end of the stems and bloom from May to July.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Psilocarphus |
Appearance
Psilocarphus Elatior has a unique appearance due to its white, cottony hairs that cover the stem and leaves of the plant. The stem is thin and can grow up to 40 cm in height. The leaves are narrow, linear, and around 2-5 cm in length. The flowers are small and grow in clusters at the end of the stems. They are either white or yellowish in color and bloom from May to July. The plant produces small, brown seeds that are around 1-2 mm in length.
Care Guide
Psilocarphus Elatior is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can survive with minimal watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: Psilocarphus Elatior prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gravelly.
- Sunlight: This plant requires full sun exposure.
- Hardiness Zones: Psilocarphus Elatior can grow in hardiness zones 8-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psilocarphus Elatior is a hardy plant that is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by spider mites or aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be controlled with a fungicide spray.
Habitat
Psilocarphus Elatior is native to North America and can be found in sandy areas, rocky slopes, and dry washes. It can grow in hardiness zones 8-10 and prefers full sun exposure. This plant is well-suited for xeriscaping and is a good choice for gardens that require low-maintenance plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psilocarphus Elatior a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Psilocarphus Elatior is an annual plant.
Q: Does Psilocarphus Elatior require fertilization?
A: No, this plant does not require fertilization.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Psilocarphus Elatior?
A: Psilocarphus Elatior may be affected by spider mites, aphids, or powdery mildew.
Q: What type of soil does Psilocarphus Elatior prefer?
A: Psilocarphus Elatior prefers well-draining soil that is sandy or gravelly.
Related Plants
- Psilocarphus Brevissimus
- Psilocarphus Californicus
- Psilocarphus Tenellus
References
- “Psilocarphus elatior.” Jepson Herbarium. University of California, Berkeley, n.d. Web. 8 July 2021.
- “Psilocarphus elatior.” Calflora. California Plant Names: Latin and Greek Meanings and Derivations, n.d. Web. 8 July 2021.
