Xeranthemum Cylindraceum

Description

Xeranthemum Cylindraceum, commonly known as the Immortelle flower, is a species of flowering plant in the sunflower family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is a popular garden plant due to its beautiful flowers that bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. The plant is known for its longevity as it retains its color even when dried, making it a popular choice for dried flower arrangements.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Xeranthemum Cylindraceum plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has a bushy appearance. It has narrow, gray-green leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The flowers are daisy-like and bloom in clusters at the top of the stems. They have a papery texture and are about 2-3 cm in diameter. The flowers come in shades of pink, purple, and white and the center of the flower is yellow with a dark brown disc. The plant produces seeds that are small, black, and cylindrical in shape.

Care Guide

Xeranthemum Cylindraceum is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:

• Water: The plant prefers well-draining soil and does not require frequent watering. Water the plant only when the soil is dry.
• Fertilization: Xeranthemum Cylindraceum does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient.
• Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate poor soil conditions.
• Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Xeranthemum Cylindraceum can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Xeranthemum Cylindraceum is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by powdery mildew and spider mites. Here are some tips on how to prevent and treat these common problems:

• Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. To treat powdery mildew, use a fungicide spray.
• Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can cause damage to the leaves by sucking out the sap. To prevent spider mites, keep the plant well hydrated and avoid dry conditions. To treat spider mites, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray.

Habitat

Xeranthemum Cylindraceum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in rocky areas, on slopes, and in fields. The plant is well-adapted to hot and dry conditions and can tolerate poor soil conditions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Xeranthemum Cylindraceum be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Xeranthemum Cylindraceum can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage and the plant is given adequate sunlight and water.

Q: How often should Xeranthemum Cylindraceum be fertilized?

A: Xeranthemum Cylindraceum does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season is sufficient.

Q: How long does the Xeranthemum Cylindraceum flower last?

A: The Xeranthemum Cylindraceum flower can last for several weeks on the plant and retains its color even when dried, making it a popular choice for dried flower arrangements.

Q: Is Xeranthemum Cylindraceum toxic to pets?

A: Xeranthemum Cylindraceum is not toxic to pets.

Related Plants

• Xeranthemum annuum
• Xeranthemum inapertum
• Xeranthemum squarrosum
• Xeranthemum cylindraceum var. retinerve

References

• “Xeranthemum cylindraceum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d330.
• “Xeranthemum.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 24 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Xeranthemum.
• “Xeranthemum cylindraceum.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/178266/.