Contents
Description
Tridax is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family, which is commonly known as the daisy family. It is also known as coatbuttons, tridax daisy, and Mexican daisy. This plant is native to tropical America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world. Tridax is an annual or perennial herb that can grow up to 2 feet tall. It has a branching stem, and its leaves are simple, alternate, and toothed. The flowers of this plant are yellow and daisy-like, and they bloom from summer to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Tridax |
Appearance
Tridax is a small to medium-sized plant that can grow up to 2 feet tall. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and toothed, and they can be up to 4 inches long. The flowers of this plant are yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of about 1 inch. They bloom from summer to fall, and they attract bees and butterflies. The fruit of Tridax is an achene, which is a small, dry, one-seeded fruit that does not open at maturity.
Care Guide
Tridax is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Tridax prefers to be kept moist but not wet. Water it regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Tridax grows best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tridax can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tridax is generally a pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:
- Aphids: These insects can suck sap from the leaves and cause them to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
- Spider mites: These pests can cause yellowing and mottling of the leaves. Use a miticide to control them.
- Mildew: This disease can cause a powdery white coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
- Root rot: This disease can occur if the soil is too wet. To prevent it, make sure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Tridax is native to tropical America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, such as Africa, Asia, and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats, including fields, pastures, roadsides, and waste areas. This plant is considered a weed in some areas because it can spread quickly and outcompete native plants.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tridax an annual or perennial plant?
A: Tridax can be both an annual or perennial plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Tridax?
A: Tridax can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Q: What is the common name for Tridax?
A: Tridax is also known as coatbuttons, tridax daisy, and Mexican daisy.
Q: What is the fruit of Tridax?
A: The fruit of Tridax is an achene, which is a small, dry, one-seeded fruit that does not open at maturity.
Related Plants
- Coreopsis
- Daisy
- Marigold
- Sunflower
References
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Tridax. Flora of North America. https://floranorthamerica.org/Tridax
- Morton, J. F. (1981). Atlas of medicinal plants of Middle America. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015008840924&view=1up&seq=7
- USDA. (n.d.). Tridax procumbens L. USDA Plants Database. https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=TRPR2
