Stephanomeria

Description

Stephanomeria is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly known as wire lettuce or crownbeard. This genus consists of about 50 species, most of which are native to North America. These plants are known for their showy flowers, which can range in color from pink to purple to white.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Stephanomeria

Appearance

Stephanomeria plants can vary in appearance depending on the species, but most have simple leaves that grow in a rosette at the base of the plant. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and have a distinctive shape with narrow ray flowers and a yellow center. These plants can reach heights of up to 6 feet, and their stems are often hairy and branched.

Care Guide

Stephanomeria plants are relatively easy to care for and are well-suited to a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your Stephanomeria plants healthy:

• Water: These plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
• Fertilization: Stephanomeria plants do not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in the spring if desired.
• Soil: These plants prefer well-draining soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
• Sunlight: Stephanomeria plants prefer full sun but can tolerate some shade.
• Hardiness Zones: These plants are hardy in USDA zones 4-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Stephanomeria plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew or rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plants and avoiding overhead watering. Pest problems are rare but can include aphids or spider mites, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap.

Habitat

Stephanomeria plants are native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. These plants prefer well-draining soil and are often found growing in dry or rocky areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Stephanomeria plants be propagated by seeds?

A: Yes, Stephanomeria plants can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in the spring in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plants emerge.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Stephanomeria plants?

A: These plants do not require much fertilizer, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once in the spring if desired.

Q: Do Stephanomeria plants attract pollinators?

A: Yes, these plants are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.

Q: How tall do Stephanomeria plants typically grow?

A: These plants can reach heights of up to 6 feet.

Related Plants

• Cirsium
• Echinacea
• Helenium
• Rudbeckia

References

• “Stephanomeria.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280156&isprofile=0.
• “Stephanomeria.” Plant Delights Nursery, Inc., www.plantdelights.com/blogs/articles/stephanomeria-crownbeard-wire-lettuce.
• “Stephanomeria.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 4 July 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stephanomeria.