False Daisy
cyanthillium cinereum
Also known as: ["Vernonia cinerea","Aster cinereus"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, native to tropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Cyanthillium |
| Botanical Name: | Cyanthillium cinereum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed or container in a warm, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–80°F (18–27°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid drafts or extreme heat/cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from cold drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to fall)
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pot, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants; shape as needed.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth; bud drop or leaf drop in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer spot; insulate pots; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping; reduced vigor in excessively high temperatures.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCyanthillium cinereum poses a risk to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can result in liver toxicity over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Cyanthillium cinereum can lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease in dogs, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCyanthillium cinereum contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily associated with prolonged exposure rather than acute toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cyanthillium cinereum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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