Saussurea Eriostemon
Contents
Description
Saussurea Eriostemon, also known as the woolly saw-wort, is a rare and endangered species of flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the alpine regions of the Himalayas, where it grows at altitudes of 3000 to 4800 meters. The woolly saw-wort is a perennial herb that can grow up to 30-60 cm in height. It has a woody rootstock and a branching stem covered with dense woolly hairs. The leaves are oblong or lanceolate, and they are also covered with woolly hairs. The flowers are purple, pink, or white in color and are arranged in spherical heads that can be up to 4 cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Saussurea |
Appearance
The woolly saw-wort is a beautiful and unique plant that stands out in any garden. Its leaves and stem are covered with dense woolly hairs that give it a soft, fuzzy appearance. The flowers are arranged in spherical heads that can be up to 4 cm in diameter. The colors of the flowers can vary from purple, pink, or white. The plant can grow up to 30-60 cm in height, and it has a woody rootstock that helps it survive in harsh alpine conditions.
Care Guide
If you want to grow Saussurea Eriostemon in your garden, it is essential to provide it with the right care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this plant:- Water: The woolly saw-wort prefers moist soil, but it does not like to be waterlogged. Make sure to water it regularly but do not overwater it.- Fertilization: You can fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.- Soil: The woolly saw-wort prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay soils.- Sunlight: The woolly saw-wort prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: The woolly saw-wort is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The woolly saw-wort is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases. Here are some common problems to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause them to curl and distort.- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves and stems.- Root rot: This disease can occur if the plant is overwatered or in poorly draining soil.
Habitat
The woolly saw-wort is native to the alpine regions of the Himalayas, where it grows in rocky and gravelly soils. It is adapted to survive in harsh alpine conditions, including cold temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity. This plant can be found in areas with high rainfall and a short growing season.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the woolly saw-wort an endangered species?
A: Yes, the woolly saw-wort is a rare and endangered species of flowering plant.Q: Can I grow Saussurea Eriostemon in a container?
A: Yes, you can grow the woolly saw-wort in a container, but make sure to provide it with well-draining soil and regular watering.Q: How often should I fertilize the plant?
A: You can fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: What is the best time to plant Saussurea Eriostemon?
A: The best time to plant the woolly saw-wort is in the spring or fall when the temperatures are cooler.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Saussurea Eriostemon:- Saussurea gossypiphora- Saussurea involucrata- Saussurea medusa- Saussurea nuda- Saussurea obvallata
References
– “Saussurea eriostemon” Flora of China, www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242422535.- “Saussurea eriostemon (C.B. Clarke) Lipsch.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, plants.jstor.org/stable/10.5555/al.ap.specimen.bm000794982.- “Woolly Saw-wort (Saussurea eriostemon).” Global Species, www.globalspecies.org/ntaxa/2572841.
