Tahoka Daisy Prairie Aster Machaeranthera tanacetifolia 50 Seeds USA Company

Machaeranthera tanacetifolia, commonly known as tansy aster or Tahoka daisy, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family. Here is a detailed description of this plant:

General Description

Growth Habit: Machaeranthera tanacetifolia typically grows as an upright, bushy herb.

Height: The plant generally reaches heights of 1 to 3 feet (30 to 90 cm).

Stems and Leaves

Stems: The stems are erect, branching, and often have a somewhat hairy texture.

Leaves: The leaves are deeply lobed, resembling those of tansy (hence the common name "tansy aster"). They are alternately arranged on the stem, with each lobe having a toothed or pinnate appearance. The leaves are gray-green to bright green and covered with fine hairs.

Flowers

Flower Heads: Machaeranthera tanacetifolia produces large, daisy-like flower heads. The central disc florets are yellow, while the surrounding ray florets are typically lavender to purple, although they can sometimes be white or pink.

Blooming Season: Flowering usually occurs from late spring to fall, depending on local climatic conditions.

Flower Size: The flower heads can be quite striking, with ray florets extending outward to create a display that can be several inches in diameter.

Fruits and Seeds

Achenes: The fruits are small, dry achenes equipped with a pappus of fine bristles that aid in wind dispersal.

Habitat and Distribution

Native Range: This plant is native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.

Preferred Habitat: It thrives in a variety of habitats, including open plains, grasslands, prairies, and along roadsides. It prefers well-drained soils and can often be found in sandy or rocky areas.

Ecological Role

Pollinators: The flowers are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and other insects.

Wildlife: It provides nectar and pollen for pollinators and serves as a food source for some herbivorous insects and animals.

Adaptations

Drought Tolerance: Machaeranthera tanacetifolia is well-adapted to dry conditions, with its hairy leaves and stems helping to reduce water loss.

Soil: It can grow in a range of soil types, including poor, well-drained soils.

Uses

Ornamental: Due to its attractive flowers and tolerance for dry conditions, it is sometimes used in xeriscaping and native plant gardens.

Ecological Restoration: It can be used in habitat restoration projects to help stabilize soil and provide resources for pollinators.

Growing Instructions for the Tahoka Daisy

1. The seeds like well-drained soil. Prepare a mixture of half potting soil and half sand, perlite or vermiculite. Put the soil in a pot. Water the mixture so that it is moist but not wet. 2. Put the seeds on the soil. 3. Cover the seeds with a thin layer of soil. 4. Water the seeds. 5. Place the pots in an area with warm temperatures in full sun. 6. When the seedlings are a few inches tall, they can be transplanted.