Scalesia

Description

Scalesia is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is endemic to the Galapagos Islands, and it is known for its unique and striking appearance. The genus is composed of 15 species, and all of them are trees or shrubs. The plants have a woody stem, and their leaves are simple and alternate. The flowers are small, and they are arranged in clusters or heads.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Scalesia plants are highly recognizable due to their unique appearance. They can grow up to 20 meters tall, and their trunks can have a diameter of up to 50 centimeters. The leaves are simple, alternate, and toothed, and they can grow up to 30 centimeters long. The flowers are small and white, and they are arranged in clusters or heads. The fruits are small and dry, and they are dispersed by the wind.

Care Guide

Scalesia plants are adapted to the harsh conditions of the Galapagos Islands, and they require special care if grown outside of their native environment. Here are some tips for caring for Scalesia plants:

• Water: Scalesia plants require moderate watering. They should be watered deeply but infrequently.
• Fertilization: Scalesia plants require regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer.
• Soil: Scalesia plants require well-draining soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
• Sunlight: Scalesia plants require full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Scalesia plants are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Scalesia plants are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including:

• Scale insects: These insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and die.
• Mites: These tiny pests can infest the plant and cause yellowing and curling of the leaves.
• Fungal infections: These infections can cause leaf spots, wilting, and other symptoms.

Habitat

Scalesia plants are endemic to the Galapagos Islands, where they grow in the highlands and on the slopes of the volcanoes. They are adapted to the arid and windy conditions of the islands, and they can tolerate drought and salt spray.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Scalesia plants be grown outside of the Galapagos Islands?

A: Yes, Scalesia plants can be grown outside of their native range, but they require special care.

Q: How tall can Scalesia plants grow?

A: Scalesia plants can grow up to 20 meters tall.

Q: What is the hardiness zone for Scalesia plants?

A: Scalesia plants are hardy in USDA zones 10 to 11.

Q: Are Scalesia plants endangered?

A: Some species of Scalesia plants are endangered due to habitat loss and invasive species.

Related Plants

• Acmella
• Ageratum
• Aster
• Bellis
• Calendula
• Chrysanthemum
• Dahlia
• Echinacea
• Helianthus
• Zinnia

References

• Charles Darwin Foundation. (n.d.). Scalesia. Galapagos Species Database. Retrieved from https://www.galapagos.org/species/scalesia/
• NatureServe. (2021). Scalesia. NatureServe Explorer. Retrieved from https://explorer.natureserve.org/Search?sn=Scalesia
• The Plant List. (2013). Scalesia. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Compositae/Scalesia/