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Description
Urospermum Picroides is a flowering plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is now widely cultivated in other parts of the world. The plant is also commonly known as Prickly Golden Fleece, Golden Samphire, and Golden Samphire Ragwort.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Urospermum |
Appearance
Urospermum Picroides is a perennial plant that can grow up to 60 cm tall. It has lance-shaped leaves that are gray-green in color and covered with fine hairs. The plant produces yellow flowers that are about 3 cm wide and have a distinctive black center. The flowers bloom from spring to summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Urospermum Picroides is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips:
- Water: The plant needs regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater it as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Urospermum Picroides does not require much fertilization. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer once or twice a year.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Urospermum Picroides prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in hardiness zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Urospermum Picroides is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by aphids, snails, and slugs. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or by handpicking them. The plant can also be affected by root rot if it is overwatered or grown in poorly-draining soil.
Habitat
Urospermum Picroides is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found in rocky and sandy habitats, as well as in fields and meadows. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Urospermum Picroides a good plant for beginners?
A: Yes, Urospermum Picroides is a hardy plant that is easy to care for and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Q: Can Urospermum Picroides be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Urospermum Picroides can be grown in containers as long as the container has drainage holes and the plant is grown in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Urospermum Picroides be fertilized?
A: Urospermum Picroides does not require much fertilization. You can use a general-purpose fertilizer once or twice a year.
Q: How can I propagate Urospermum Picroides?
A: Urospermum Picroides can be propagated by division or by taking stem cuttings in the spring.
Related Plants
- Urospermum dalechampii
- Urospermum erythraeum
- Urospermum picroides subsp. suaveolens
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/prickly-golden-fleece/prickly-golden-fleece-plant.htm
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17524/Urospermum-picroides/Details
- https://www.nature-and-garden.com/gardening/urospermum-picroides.html
