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Description
Wollastonia Biflora, also known as shrubby goldentop, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 5 feet tall. The plant has a woody stem with numerous branches and small yellow flowers that bloom in the summer and fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Wollastonia |
Appearance
Wollastonia Biflora has a shrubby appearance with a dense growth habit. Its leaves are small, narrow, and elongated, measuring up to 2 inches in length. The leaves are green on top and covered with fine hairs on the underside. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The flowers have a diameter of approximately 0.5 inches and bloom in the summer and fall.
Care Guide
Wollastonia Biflora is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It is drought tolerant and can grow in a variety of soil types. However, the plant does best in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. The following are care requirements for Wollastonia Biflora:
- Water: Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season. Reduce watering during the winter months.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in the spring.
- Soil: Plant Wollastonia Biflora in well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade to thrive.
- Hardiness Zones: Wollastonia Biflora grows best in hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wollastonia Biflora is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, the plant may occasionally be affected by spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. The following are some common pests and diseases that may affect Wollastonia Biflora:
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing of the leaves and a fine webbing on the plant.
- Whiteflies: These pests suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
- Aphids: These pests also suck the sap from the plant, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
Habitat
Wollastonia Biflora is native to the southeastern United States and can be found growing in sandy soils, fields, and along roadsides. The plant is well adapted to drought conditions and can survive in a variety of habitats with minimal care.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wollastonia Biflora poisonous?
A: No, Wollastonia Biflora is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: Can Wollastonia Biflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Wollastonia Biflora can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Wollastonia Biflora?
A: Fertilize Wollastonia Biflora once a year in the spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Does Wollastonia Biflora attract bees and butterflies?
A: Yes, Wollastonia Biflora is a great plant for attracting bees and butterflies to your garden.
Related Plants
- Ageratum conyzoides
- Bidens pilosa
- Chrysanthemum frutescens
- Tithonia diversifolia
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/golden-top-shrubs/growing-golden-top-shrubs.htm
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=WOBIF
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=WOBIF
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/wollastonia-biflora-shrubby-goldentop
