Origin and Common Names
Thymophylla aurea (Gray) Greene ex Britt. var. aurea, commonly known as goldeneye or Arizona gold, is a species of flowering plant in the family Asteraceae. It is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, where it is found in dry desert regions, rocky slopes, and open woodlands.
General Appearance
The goldeneye plant is a small, perennial herb that typically grows up to 1-2 feet tall and spreads out into a rounded shape, reaching a width of 1-2 feet. The plant has narrow, silky, silver-green leaves that are 1 inch long and 1/8 inch wide. Its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers, approximately 1 inch in diameter, bloom in clusters on long stems from spring through fall. It blooms mid-April to October often attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Uses
Goldeneye is primarily grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and natural landscaping, as it is a low-maintenance plant that is drought-tolerant and can withstand hot and dry conditions. It is often used as ground cover, along borders, in rock gardens, or in potted arrangements. The leaves of the plant can also be used for tea and medicinal purposes as they have anti-inflammatory, digestive, and pain-relieving properties. Native American tribes historically used the leaves to treat wounds and bruises by crushing them into a poultice or infusing them into tea.
In conclusion, Thymophylla aurea (Gray) Greene ex Britt. var. aurea, commonly known as goldeneye, is an attractive, low-maintenance, and drought-tolerant plant that is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It features bright yellow, daisy-like flowers and silver-green leaves that have medicinal properties when used in tea and poultices. Its easy-to-grow nature and aesthetic appearance make it a popular choice in many garden landscapes.Light Requirements
Thymophylla aurea typically requires full sun exposure in order to grow properly. It is capable of withstanding some shade, but it will not thrive as well as it would in full sun. The plant can tolerate moderate shade levels but would struggle in any level of deep and prolonged shade.
Temperature Requirements
Thymophylla aurea is native to arid and semi-arid regions of North America and is adapted to hot, dry conditions. It is capable of growing in a wide range of temperatures but thrives in warm temperatures ranging from 60°F to 85°F (16°C - 30°C). This plant is frost-sensitive, and prolonged exposure to temperatures below 28°F (-2°C) can lead to it dying off.
Soil Requirements
Thymophylla aurea prefers well-draining and nutrient-rich soil for optimal growth. The plant can grow in various soil types but performs best in soil that is slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH range between 6.0 and 7.5. Avoid planting in soil that is heavy with clay as it can cause poor drainage and lead to root rot.
Cultivation Methods
Thymophylla aurea, also known as golden crownbeard, is a native plant to the southwestern region of the United States and Mexico. It is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that can adapt to many soil types and growing conditions. The ideal location for planting this plant is in full sun, but it can also thrive in partial shade. It can tolerate dry and hot conditions, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
Golden crownbeard can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings. To grow from seeds, plant them in well-draining soil during spring or summer, using a light layer of soil to cover them. Keep the soil moist but not soggy, and place them in a warm location with plenty of light. The seedlings should emerge within two to three weeks.
If you prefer to propagate from stem cuttings, take 3- to 4-inch cuttings from the tips of the plant. Remove the bottom leaves from the cutting and dip it into rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-draining soil mix and water it well. Cover the pot with plastic, and keep it in a warm, well-lit environment. The cuttings should root in three to four weeks.
Watering Needs
Golden crownbeard is a drought-tolerant plant that does not require frequent watering. During the first growing season, ensure that the soil is kept slightly moist at all times to encourage root growth. After the plant is established and has developed a robust root system, it can thrive on less frequent watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry, about once a week. Be cautious not to overwater the plant, as it can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Golden crownbeard does not require frequent fertilization, but it does benefit from occasional feedings. Fertilize the plant twice a year, once in the spring when new growth appears, and again in mid-summer. Use a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Too much nitrogen in the fertilizer can result in leggy growth and fewer blooms.
Pruning
Golden crownbeard does not require frequent pruning, but you can shape the plant by trimming it a few times a year. Pinch the plant back to the leaf pairs to encourage bushier growth and more blooms. Deadhead the spent blooms regularly to promote flowering throughout the season. Cut back the plant in the fall after it has finished blooming to encourage new growth in the following spring.
Propagation of Thymophylla Aurea
Thymophylla Aurea, also known as Golden Thymophylla, is a perennial plant with yellow flowers. Propagation of Thymophylla Aurea can be done through various methods such as seed propagation, division, and stem cuttings.
Seed Propagation
Thymophylla Aurea can be propagated using seeds. The seeds of the plant are easily available and can be sown directly into the soil or started indoors before transplanting. The seeds should be sown in well-draining soil, and the soil should be kept moist until the seedlings emerge.
Division
Thymophylla Aurea can also be propagated through division. This method is suitable for mature plants as it requires the division of the root ball. The plant should be carefully uprooted, and the root ball should be divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a portion of the root and a few stems. The divided sections can be replanted in a new location or in containers.
Stem Cuttings
Propagation of Thymophylla Aurea can also be done through stem cuttings. This method involves taking cuttings from the plant and rooting them in water or soil. Cuttings should be taken from the new growth and should be around six inches long. The leaves on the lower half of the cutting should be removed, and the cutting should be planted in well-draining soil. The soil should be kept moist until the cutting roots and starts to grow new leaves.
Disease and Pest Management for Thymophylla aurea (Gray) Greene ex Britt. var. aurea
Thymophylla aurea is a hardy plant that is fairly resistant to disease and pests. Despite this, some issues may occur that can compromise the plant's health over time. Below is a list of common diseases and pests that might affect the plant and suggestions on how to manage them.
Diseases
One of the most common diseases that can affect Thymophylla aurea is root rot. This fungal disease can be caused by overwatering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels. Root rot can lead to yellowing leaves, wilting, and an overall decline in the plant's health. To prevent root rot, it is essential to ensure that the plant is not sitting in overly moist soil. Allow the soil to dry out partially before watering, and make sure that the pot has good drainage. If root rot has already set in, repot the plant in fresh, well-draining soil.
Another disease that can affect Thymophylla aurea is powdery mildew. This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on leaves, stems, and flowers. It thrives in humid conditions, so ensure that the plant is placed in an area with good air circulation. If powdery mildew occurs, treat the plant with a fungicide spray, and remove any affected leaves or flowers to prevent further spread.
Pests
Aphids are a common pest that can infest Thymophylla aurea. These small insects feed on the plant's sap, causing leaves to curl and distort. To manage an aphid infestation, spray the plant with a mixture of insecticidal soap and water. This will suffocate the aphids and prevent them from feeding on the plant.
Spider mites are another pest that can affect the plant, especially during hot and dry periods. These tiny arachnids are barely visible to the naked eye and appear as tiny red or black specks on the undersides of leaves. Spider mites feed on the plant's sap and can cause leaves to yellow and fall off. To manage a spider mite infestation, spray the plant with a solution of neem oil and water. Neem oil is a natural insecticide and miticide that will help to suffocate and repel spider mites.
By being aware of common diseases and pests that can affect Thymophylla aurea and taking appropriate preventative measures, you can keep your plant healthy and thriving for years to come.
