Contents
Description
Staehelina is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae. It originated from the Mediterranean region and is commonly found in South Africa. Staehelina plants are known for their daisy-like flowers that bloom in various shades of pink, purple, and white. The leaves are green and usually have a narrow, elongated shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Staehelina |
Appearance
Staehelina plants have a compact growth habit, with a height ranging from 15 to 60 centimeters. The flowers are small and daisy-like, with a diameter of about 2 centimeters. They bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer. The petals of the flowers are usually pink, purple, or white, while the center is yellow. The leaves are narrow, elongated, and green in color. They have a slightly hairy texture and are arranged alternately along the stem.
Care Guide
Staehelina plants are relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to keep your Staehelina healthy:Water: Staehelina plants prefer well-draining soil, so make sure not to overwater them. Water them thoroughly once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.Fertilization: You can fertilize your Staehelina plant with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Staehelina plants prefer well-draining soil, so make sure to plant them in a pot with a good drainage hole. You can use a mixture of potting soil and sand to improve drainage.Sunlight: Staehelina plants prefer full sun to partial shade. Make sure to place them in an area where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Staehelina plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Staehelina plants are relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues you may encounter:Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of your Staehelina plant. You can control them by spraying your plant with a solution of water and dish soap.Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. You can control them by regularly misting your plant with water and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.Root Rot: Root rot is a fungal disease that can occur if your plant is overwatered. To prevent root rot, make sure to plant your Staehelina in well-draining soil and water it only when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Habitat
Staehelina plants are native to the Mediterranean region and are commonly found in South Africa. They prefer dry, rocky soil and are often found growing on hillsides and rocky outcrops.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Staehelina plant?
A: Water your Staehelina plant thoroughly once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.Q: What pests should I watch out for with my Staehelina plant?
A: Watch out for aphids and spider mites. You can control them by spraying your plant with a solution of water and dish soap, or regularly misting your plant with water and wiping the leaves with a damp cloth.Q: What is the ideal sunlight requirement for a Staehelina plant?
A: Staehelina plants prefer full sun to partial shade. Make sure to place them in an area where they can receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Staehelina plants?
A: Staehelina plants are hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Staehelina:- Arctotis- Gazania- Osteospermum- Cape Daisy- African Daisy
References
– “Staehelina” in The Plant List, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden- “Staehelina” in PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute- “Staehelina” in Gardening Know How- “Staehelina” in World of Flowering Plants
