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Description
Townsendia Incana, commonly known as the woolly townsend daisy, is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the western regions of North America, including Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, New Mexico, Utah, and Wyoming. Townsendia Incana is a popular ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers and low maintenance requirements.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Townsendia |
Appearance
Townsendia Incana has a compact, mat-forming habit and reaches a height of 2 to 4 inches. The plant produces numerous stems that are covered with fine, woolly hairs, hence the name woolly townsend daisy. The leaves are small, linear, and gray-green in color. The flowers of Townsendia Incana are daisy-like and measure 1 inch in diameter. They are pink, lavender, or white in color and bloom in late spring and early summer.
Care Guide
Townsendia Incana is a low maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soils and full sun. Here are some care tips for Townsendia Incana:
- Water: Water the plant regularly during the growing season, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Townsendia Incana prefers well-drained soils that are rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.5.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to thrive, but it can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Townsendia Incana is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Townsendia Incana is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and deformities in the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and bronzing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites.
- Crown rot: This fungal disease can cause wilting and death of the plant. Avoid overhead watering and improve soil drainage to prevent crown rot.
Habitat
Townsendia Incana is native to the western regions of North America, where it grows in dry, rocky areas, meadows, and open forests. The plant is adapted to harsh environmental conditions and can tolerate drought, heat, and cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Townsendia Incana a good ground cover plant?
A: Yes, Townsendia Incana is an excellent ground cover plant that can form a dense mat of foliage and flowers.
Q: Can Townsendia Incana grow in containers?
A: Yes, Townsendia Incana can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Townsendia Incana?
A: Fertilize Townsendia Incana once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Townsendia Incana?
A: Townsendia Incana can be propagated by division in early spring or fall. Simply dig up the plant and separate it into smaller sections, each with its own roots and shoots.
Related Plants
- Townsendia Grandiflora
- Townsendia Parryi
- Townsendia Scapigera
- Townsendia Sericea
References
- USDA Plants Database: Townsendia Incana
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Townsendia Incana
- Colorado State University Extension: Townsendia Incana
