Contents
Description
Wedelia is a genus of flowering plants in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) that is native to the Americas. It is a fast-growing and low-maintenance plant that produces bright yellow flowers and dense foliage. Wedelia is commonly used in landscaping and gardening due to its ability to spread rapidly and cover large areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Wedelia |
Appearance
Wedelia has oval-shaped leaves that are bright green and shiny. The leaves grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that are about 1 inch in diameter and grow in clusters at the tips of the stems. Wedelia can grow up to 2 feet tall and 6 feet wide, and it spreads rapidly by rooting at the nodes.
Care Guide
Wedelia is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for taking care of Wedelia:- Water: Wedelia prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, make sure not to overwater it, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Wedelia does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.- Soil: Wedelia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.- Sunlight: Wedelia prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Wedelia is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wedelia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect Wedelia:- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Whiteflies: These small insects can cause yellowing and curling of the leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Root rot: This fungal disease can occur if the soil is too wet. It can be prevented by ensuring that the soil is well-draining and not overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Wedelia is native to the Americas and can be found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, forests, and grasslands. It prefers moist soil and full sun but can tolerate a wide range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wedelia toxic to pets?
A: Wedelia is not known to be toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your pets when introducing new plants to your home or garden.
Q: How often should I fertilize Wedelia?
A: Wedelia does not require frequent fertilization, but it can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once or twice a year.
Q: Can I grow Wedelia in a container?
A: Yes, Wedelia can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to spread its roots.
Q: Does Wedelia attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Wedelia’s bright yellow flowers are attractive to bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
– Bidens- Coreopsis- Gaillardia- Rudbeckia
References
– “Wedelia trilobata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277455.- “Wedelia.” Wikipedia, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wedelia.
