Verbesina virginica
TAXONOMY
FamilyAsteraceae
GenusVerbesina
Zone5
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Verbesina virginica, commonly known as Frostweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and is known for its unique ability to produce ice formations at its base during the first frost, hence the name Frostweed. The plant typically grows in temperate climates and can reach heights of up to 2 meters.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Frostweed
Phaethusa laciniata
Phaethusa virginica
Verbesina polycephala
Verbesina sinuata
Verbesina villosa
Verbesina virginica var. laciniata
Verbesina virginica var. virginica
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Frostweed requires moderate care. It thrives in areas with direct bright light and should be watered when the soil partially dries out. The plant prefers moderate temperatures and humidity levels. Regular pruning is recommended to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.Soil
Verbesina virginica prefers well-draining loamy soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but performs best in nutrient-rich soil with good drainage. Ensure the soil is not waterlogged to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
Use a balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10. Fertilize the plant during the growing season, typically in spring and summer, to promote healthy growth. Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to nutrient burn.Repotting
Repotting is generally not necessary for Frostweed as it is typically grown outdoors. However, if grown in a container, repot every 2-3 years or when the plant outgrows its pot. Choose a slightly larger pot with good drainage and fresh loamy soil.Propagation
Frostweed can be propagated through seeds or division. The best time to propagate is in early spring. For seed propagation, sow the seeds in a well-draining soil mix and keep them moist until germination. For division, carefully separate the plant's root clumps and replant them in suitable soil.Pruning
Pruning is beneficial for Frostweed to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Prune the plant in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged stems and trim back overgrown areas.Toxicity
Verbesina virginica is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, as with all plants, it is advisable to prevent pets and children from ingesting any part of the plant.Additional
Frostweed is known for its unique ability to form ice crystals at its base during the first frost, creating a beautiful and unusual display. This phenomenon occurs when the plant's sap freezes and expands, causing the stem to split and extrude ice. It is a fascinating feature that adds to the plant's ornamental value.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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