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Description
Verbesina Occidentalis, also known as Western Crownbeard, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to North America. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its yellow blooms that appear in mid to late summer. This plant can grow up to six feet tall and can spread up to three feet wide. It has a deep root system that helps it withstand drought and harsh conditions.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Verbesina |
Appearance
The leaves of Verbesina Occidentalis are large, toothed, and hairy, giving the plant a rough texture. The stems are also hairy and can be slightly purple in color. The flowers are yellow and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems. The blooms can be up to two inches in diameter and have a unique fragrance. The plant blooms from mid to late summer and produces seeds that are dispersed by the wind.
Care Guide
Verbesina Occidentalis is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: This plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand dry conditions. Water it only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring.
- Soil: Verbesina Occidentalis prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can tolerate a range of soil types but does not do well in heavy clay soil.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Verbesina Occidentalis is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Verbesina Occidentalis is relatively pest and disease-resistant but can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing and distortion of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
- Spider Mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and stippling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong blast of water.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. It can be controlled with fungicides or by improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Verbesina Occidentalis is native to North America and can be found in a range of habitats, including prairies, meadows, and open woods. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun but can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Verbesina Occidentalis toxic to humans or pets?
A: There is no evidence that Verbesina Occidentalis is toxic to humans or pets.
Q: Can Verbesina Occidentalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Verbesina Occidentalis can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate its deep root system.
Q: How often should Verbesina Occidentalis be fertilized?
A: Verbesina Occidentalis does not require frequent fertilization and can be fertilized once a year in the spring with a light application of a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How often should Verbesina Occidentalis be watered?
A: Verbesina Occidentalis is drought-tolerant and should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Related Plants
- Verbesina Alternifolia
- Verbesina Encelioides
- Verbesina Helianthoides
- Verbesina Virginica
References
- Clemson Cooperative Extension. (2021). Western Crownbeard. Clemson University. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/western-crownbeard/
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Verbesina Occidentalis. Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j580
- North Carolina State University. (2021). Verbesina Occidentalis. North Carolina State University. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/verbesina-occidentalis/
