Olearia speciosa
telekia speciosa
Also known as: ["Olearia speciosa","Balkan telekia"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with large, heart-shaped leaves and daisy-like flowers, native to the Balkans and Caucasus.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Telekia |
| Botanical Name: | Telekia speciosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or dappled sunlight per day; adjust for intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; provide shade during extreme heat.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plants for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
fertile, well-drained loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 3–8; tolerates temperatures between -30°F and 90°F; prefers cool nights in summer.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; apply before new growth emerges; water well after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Division or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Dig up the plant.
- Divide roots into sections with healthy shoots.
- Replant divisions at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly.
Best Time: Early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant.
Environment
Shade to partial sun; consistent moisture; moderate humidity.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; optional for root cuttings.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: 4–6 weeks for roots, 1–2 years for full growth.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, pruning shears, gloves.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has roots and shoots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; remove spent flower heads to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems; thin overcrowded growth to improve air circulation; shape as needed.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; thin overcrowded areas; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter if repotting.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Not typically required as Telekia speciosa is usually grown in the ground; container-grown plants may need repotting every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; repot carefully; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause leaf damage; prolonged frost may damage roots.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base; protect with frost cloth in extreme cold; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower bud drop, or leaf scorch.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop fertilizing in late summer/autumn.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTelekia speciosa is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTelekia speciosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTelekia speciosa is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Telekia speciosa grow?
A: It typically reaches 1–1.5 meters in height.
Q: Does Telekia speciosa require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun with adequate moisture.
Q: Is Telekia speciosa invasive?
A: It is not considered invasive in most regions but can spread moderately in favorable conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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