Contents
Description
Selenia is a genus of flowering plants that belong to the family Asteraceae. It comprises of approximately 11 species of perennial herbs that are native to South America. The plants have a basal rosette of leaves from which arises a single, tall stem that is topped with a single daisy-like flower head. The flower head consists of many small flowers that are arranged in a circular pattern and surrounded by numerous ray flowers that are white, pink or purple in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Selenia |
Appearance
Selenia plants are characterized by a basal rosette of leaves from which arises a single, tall stem that reaches up to 2.5 feet in height. The leaves are lance-shaped, glossy, and dark green with a prominent central vein. The flower head is daisy-like and consists of many small flowers that are arranged in a circular pattern and surrounded by numerous ray flowers that are white, pink or purple in color. The flowers bloom in the summer and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Selenia plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plants require regular watering, especially during the growing season, but they do not tolerate standing water. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer. Selenia plants prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade. They are hardy in USDA zones 8-10 and can be propagated from seeds or by dividing the clumps.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selenia plants are susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and root rot. They can also be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. To prevent these problems, ensure that the plants are grown in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering. Use a fungicide or insecticide as necessary to control pests and diseases.
Habitat
Selenia plants are native to South America and are found in the Andes Mountains in Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. They grow in rocky, well-draining soils at high elevations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selenia plants be grown indoors?
A: Selenia plants prefer full sun and are not well-suited for indoor growing.
Q: How often should Selenia plants be fertilized?
A: Selenia plants should be fertilized in the spring and again in mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Selenia plants?
A: Selenia plants can be propagated from seeds or by dividing the clumps.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Selenia plants?
A: Selenia plants are hardy in USDA zones 8-10.
Related Plants
- Echinacea
- Rudbeckia
- Helianthus
- Aster
References
- Encyclopedia of Life. (n.d.) Selenia. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/56146
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021) Selenia. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c699
- Plant Delights Nursery. (n.d.) Selenia. Retrieved from https://www.plantdelights.com/collections/selenia
