Origin and Common Names
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple, commonly known as Cottony Goldenaster or Coast Plain Goldenaster, is a species of perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the southeast region of the United States, specifically in the coastal plain from North Carolina to Florida, where it can be found in sandy habitats, bogs, and wet savannas.
Appearance
The Cottony Goldenaster grows up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide, displaying a hairy and glandular stem coated with resinous glands that give off a strong odor when crushed. The leaves of the plant are alternate, linear, and measure up to 6 inches long and 0.25 inches wide, with small glandular hairs and resinous dots. The inflorescence consists of a cluster of flower heads that usually bloom from September to November and measure between 0.5 to 1 inch in diameter.
Uses
Chrysopsis gossypina has several uses in different fields. Historically, the Native Americans used this plant as a medicinal herb to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, and sore throat. It is also used as a food source for various butterflies, bees, and other native pollinators. Moreover, Chrysopsis gossypina is commonly used in landscaping and gardening, as it is a drought-tolerant plant that can grow in various environmental conditions and soil types. Finally, Cottony Goldenaster is sometimes used for erosion control and land reclamation purposes.
Light Requirements
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple thrives in full sun or partial shade. However, it tends to produce fewer flowers and have less vibrant foliage when grown in low-light conditions.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species is native to the southeastern United States, where the climate is warm, mild, and temperate. Therefore, it prefers temperatures between 60°F to 80°F and can tolerate light frosts. However, it cannot survive in extreme heat or cold conditions.
Soil Requirements
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple grows best in well-draining soils rich in organic matter. It prefers soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level between 5.5 to 7.5. The plant can tolerate drought-like conditions but will thrive in soils that are consistently moist, but not waterlogged or saturated.
Cultivation Methods
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple grows best in full sunlight and well-drained soil. This plant is drought-tolerant and can withstand hot temperatures, making it an excellent choice for gardens in arid regions. When planting, ensure that the soil is loosened to a depth of at least 12 inches for the roots to penetrate easily. It is advisable to plant these shrubs in spring to give them ample time to establish themselves before winter.
Watering Needs
Although Chrysopsis gossypina is drought-tolerant, it still requires adequate moisture for healthy growth and flowering. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during the first few months after planting, to help establish the root system. Once established, the plant can survive on rainfall alone, but supplementing with irrigation during long periods of drought is recommended. Water deeply and less frequently, rather than shallowly and more frequently, to encourage deep root growth.
Fertilization
Chrysopsis gossypina does not require a lot of fertilization, as excessive nitrogen can lead to lush foliage and fewer flowers. It is best planted in nutrient-rich soil. However, applying a slow-release fertilizer in the spring can help boost growth and promote flowering. Use a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer or a 5-10-5 fertilizer, as long as it is appropriate for the soil type. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully and avoid over-fertilizing.
Pruning
Chrysopsis gossypina requires minimal pruning. However, to promote bushy growth and abundant flowers, remove any dead or damaged branches in early spring when new growth appears. Cutting back the entire plant by one-third its size after the first hard frost in fall can also help to stimulate new growth in the next growing season. Prune the plant to maintain an even shape and to remove any crossing or rubbing branches that can cause damage.
Propagation of Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. cruiseana
Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. cruiseana, commonly known as cottony golden aster, is a herbaceous plant native to the United States Southeast. The species belongs to the family Asteraceae and is a perennial, which means it can live for more than two years. Propagation of Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. cruiseana can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and division.
Seed Propagation
Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. cruiseana produces small seeds that can be collected in the fall. The seeds can be sown directly into the ground, but some gardeners prefer to start the seeds indoors in the spring and transplant the seedlings when they are large enough to handle. To successfully grow cottony golden aster from seed, the soil should be kept consistently moist and the plant should receive plenty of sunlight.
Cuttings Propagation
Propagation of Chrysopsis gossypina ssp. cruiseana using cuttings involves taking a stem cutting from the parent plant and rooting it in water or soil. Softwood cuttings are taken in the spring when the plant is actively growing, while hardwood cuttings are taken in the fall or winter when the plant is dormant. Before planting the cutting, it is recommended to dip the cut end in rooting hormone to encourage root growth.
Division Propagation
Division is the process of dividing a larger plant into smaller plants to propagate. This method is usually done in the fall when the plant is dormant or in the spring when the plant is actively growing. To divide the plant, gently dig up the entire clump, separate the roots into smaller portions and replant each portion in a new location. It is important to ensure that each portion has plenty of roots and leaves to promote healthy growth.
Disease Management
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple is generally a hardy plant but it is susceptible to certain diseases. Some of the common diseases that affect the plant are:
- Fungal leaf spot: This disease causes small, circular lesions on the leaves that may turn yellow or brown and may eventually cause the leaves to drop. It is caused by fungi such as Cercospora chrysopsidis and can be managed by removing and destroying infected leaves and using fungicides.
- Crown rot: This disease causes the rotting of the crown and roots of the plant and is caused by fungi such as Rhizoctonia solani. It can be managed by providing proper drainage and by avoiding overwatering.
- Root rot: This disease causes the roots to rot and is caused by fungi such as Phytophthora cinnamomi. It can be managed by providing proper drainage and avoiding overwatering.
To manage these diseases, it is important to practice good cultural management such as proper drainage, avoiding overwatering, removing infected plant parts, and using fungicides when necessary.
Pest Management
Chrysopsis gossypina (Michx.) Ell. ssp. cruiseana (Dress) Semple is also susceptible to certain pests. Some of the common pests that affect the plant are:
- Mites: Mites are small pests that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing yellowing and distortion. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or oil.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or oil.
- Thrips: Thrips are small, black insects that feed on the leaves of the plant, causing curling and distortion. They can be managed by using insecticidal soap or oil.
To manage these pests, it is important to practice good cultural management such as removing infected plant parts and using insecticidal soap or oil when necessary. Additionally, maintaining proper plant nutrition and providing sufficient water can help reduce pest damage.
