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Description
Verbesina Crocata, commonly known as the Orange Crownbeard or the South African Tickseed, is a perennial plant native to South Africa. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its bright orange-yellow flowers that bloom from late summer to autumn. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of about 0.6 meters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Verbesina |
Appearance
Verbesina Crocata has large leaves that are ovate and serrated. The leaves are dark green in color and are about 15-20 cm long. The plant produces clusters of bright orange-yellow flowers that are about 2.5 cm in diameter. The flowers have a central disk that is surrounded by ray florets. The plant can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a spread of about 0.6 meters.
Care Guide
Water
Verbesina Crocata requires moderate watering. It should be watered regularly but not excessively. The plant should be allowed to dry out between watering.
Fertilization
The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Fertilization should be stopped during the winter months.
Soil
Verbesina Crocata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
Verbesina Crocata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbesina Crocata is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it may be susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. The plant may also be affected by powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
Verbesina Crocata is native to South Africa but can be found in other parts of the world as an ornamental plant. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbesina Crocata toxic to pets?
A: Verbesina Crocata is not toxic to pets.
Q: How often should Verbesina Crocata be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the ideal location to plant Verbesina Crocata?
A: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It should be planted in a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight per day.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Verbesina Crocata?
A: Verbesina Crocata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Verbesina Alternifolia
- Verbesina Encelioides
- Verbesina Helianthoides
- Verbesina Occidentalis
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/verbesina/growing-tickseed-plants.htm
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/verbesina/orange-crownbeard-plant.htm
- https://www.southernliving.com/garden/flowers/orange-crownbeard-tickseed-verbesina-crocata
