Origin and Common Names
Heterotheca subaxillaris, commonly known as camphorweed, goldenaster, or camphor goldenaster, is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Asteraceae. The plant is native to North America and can be found in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
General Appearance
The camphorweed plant grows up to a height of 1-3 feet and has a spread of about 1-2 feet. The plant has an erect stem that is green, ribbed, and hairy. The leaves are alternate, simple, lanceolate to elliptic in shape, and range in size from 1-4 inches long and 0.2-1 inch wide. The leaves are green and hairy on both surfaces.
The flowers of the camphorweed plant are bright yellow, and the plant produces the flowers from July to November. The flowers are densely packed to form a flower head that is about 1 inch in diameter. The flower head has a central disk surrounded by 10-20 yellow ray flowers. The flowers give off a pleasant odor, especially in the evening.
Uses
Camphorweed has been used for various medicinal purposes by the indigenous people of North America for centuries. The plant was used to treat colds, respiratory ailments, and skin infections. They also used the plant as a poultice to reduce inflammation and pain.
Camphorweed plants also have ornamental value, and they are often grown as ornamental plants in gardens and landscapes. The yellow flowers of the plant provide a splash of color to the garden in the fall when other plants have finished blooming.
In addition to its medical and ornamental uses, camphorweed is also used by wildlife. The plant is a source of food for various animals, including butterflies, bees, and birds.
In conclusion, Heterotheca subaxillaris, commonly known as camphorweed, is a versatile plant that has medicinal, ornamental, and wildlife value. The plant is easy to grow and maintain and can add color and beauty to any garden or landscape.
Light Requirements
Heterotheca subaxillaris is a plant species that thrives well under full sunlight conditions. Therefore, it is best suited for open habitats that receive unobstructed sunlight exposure.
Temperature Requirements
This plant species grows well in warm temperatures within its suitable range. It is quite hardy and can endure high temperatures in the summer months. Heterotheca subaxillaris can survive in temperatures as low as -8 °C, making it a suitable plant for temperate habitats.
Soil Requirements
Heterotheca subaxillaris is generally an undemanding plant and can grow well in most soil types. However, it is best suited for moist to dry soils with a pH range of 4.5-7.5 to thrive. Well-drained, nutrient-rich soils are ideal for optimal growth and development.
Cultivation
The Heterotheca subaxillaris plant belongs to the sunflower family and is commonly known as Camphorweed or Golden Aster. They are native to North America and thrive in sunny locations. They can grow up to 30 inches in height and 12 inches in width. To cultivate Heterotheca subaxillaris, the following steps are recommended:
- Choose a sunny location in your garden.
- Prepare the soil by mixing in compost or other organic matter.
- Plant the Heterotheca subaxillaris seeds about 6 to 8 inches apart and about 1/8 inch deep in the soil.
- Water the plant generously after planting and ensure that the soil remains moist during the germination period.
- Once seedlings appear, you can thin them out to create enough space for the plants to grow.
Watering Needs
The Heterotheca subaxillaris plants prefer a well-draining soil and require moderate watering. Overwatering may cause root rot, and underwatering may lead to stunted growth and poor flowering. The following tips can help with watering:
- Check the soil regularly and water the plants once a week during the growing seasons.
- During hot weather, increase watering frequency, ensuring that the soil remains moist but not waterlogged.
- Water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, which may lead to fungal infections.
Fertilization
Although Heterotheca subaxillaris do not require a lot of fertilization, you can use a well-balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and flowering. The following steps can help with fertilization:
- Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, once a month during the growing season.
- Ensure that you follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging and use the appropriate amount and frequency.
- Avoid over-fertilizing, which may lead to leaf burn and poor flowering.
Pruning
The Heterotheca subaxillaris plants require minimal pruning. However, regular deadheading can help to promote better and longer flowering. Deadheading involves removing the spent flowers and cutting the stem back to the first set of leaves. The following tips can help with pruning:
- Regularly inspect the plant for spent flowers and remove them promptly.
- Deadhead the plant regularly to promote better flowering.
- You can also shear the plant lightly after the flowering season to maintain its shape and encourage more branching the following year.
Propagation of Heterotheca subaxillaris (Lam.) Britt. & Rusby
Heterotheca subaxillaris, also known as Camphorweed or Bitterweed, is a herbaceous flowering plant native to North America. This plant can be propagated by various methods.
Seed Propagation
The easiest way to propagate Heterotheca subaxillaris is through seeds. The plant produces loads of tiny seeds with a feathery pappus which allows them to fly with the wind for dispersal.
To harvest the seeds, allow the flowers to mature and dry. Once the flowers have dried completely, shake the plant or gently rub the plant between your fingers over a container to collect the seeds.
Sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix early in the spring or late autumn. Space the seeds around 1 inch apart and cover lightly with soil. Keep the seeds moist until they germinate, which usually takes around 7 to 14 days.
Cutting Propagation
Cutting propagation involves taking a stem cutting from a parent plant and growing it into a new plant.
To perform cutting propagation, take a cutting from a mature Heterotheca subaxillaris plant in the autumn or early winter. The cutting should be around 6 inches long and have at least 4 to 5 leaves attached.
Remove the lower leaves from the cutting leaving only the top leaves. Dip the cutting into rooting hormone powder and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root in around 4 to 6 weeks.
Division Propagation
Heterotheca subaxillaris can be propagated by division if the parent plant has a large root system.
To perform division propagation, dig up the parent plant and separate the roots and stems into smaller sections. Replant these sections into new containers or outdoor garden beds.
Make sure to water the new plants regularly until they are established in their new location
Disease and Pest Management for Heterotheca Subaxillaris
Heterotheca subaxillaris, also known as the camphorweed, is a hardy and drought-tolerant plant. However, just like any other plant, it can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are some common diseases and pests that might affect Heterotheca subaxillaris:
Diseases
Fungal diseases: Fungal diseases that can affect Heterotheca subaxillaris include rust, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Rust appears as orange or yellow spots on the leaves and can cause defoliation if not treated. Powdery mildew is identified by the white powdery substance that appears on the leaves, and can cause yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Leaf spot appears as black or brown spots on the leaves. Fungal diseases can be avoided by ensuring proper watering, good air circulation, and adequate sunlight. To manage these diseases, use an appropriate fungicide following the instructions on the label.
Bacterial disease: Bacterial wilt can affect Heterotheca subaxillaris, and it is characterized by yellowing and wilting of the leaves. Once infected, there is no cure for the plant. To manage bacterial wilt, remove the infected plant and destroy it immediately to prevent the disease from spreading.
Pests
Aphids: Aphids suck the sap from the leaves and can cause yellowing, curling, and distortion of the leaves. To manage aphids, a strong stream of water can be used to dislodge them from the plant. In severe cases, an insecticidal soap or oil can be used following the instructions on the label.
Spider mites: Spider mites are tiny pests that can cause yellowing, stippling, and webbing on the leaves. To manage spider mites, ensure adequate watering and humidity levels in the plant environment. In severe cases, insecticidal soap or oil can also be used following the instructions on the label.
Thrips: Thrips feed on the leaves and can cause yellowing and stippling. They are small and can be difficult to spot. To manage thrips, remove infected leaves and control weeds, which can be hosts for thrips. In severe cases, an insecticidal soap or oil can also be used following the instructions on the label.
Regular monitoring of Heterotheca subaxillaris is essential in ensuring it is free from pests and diseases. Early detection and management can save your plant from severe damage, declining health, and complete loss.
