False Tansy Fleabane
amphiachyris dracunculoides
Also known as: ["False Tansy Fleabane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, characterized by its daisy-like flowers and fern-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Amphiachyris |
| Botanical Name: | Amphiachyris dracunculoides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open, sunny garden bed or container with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates brief cold but thrives in warmth.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care for seasonal shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil; ensure drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half-strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume Amphiachyris dracunculoides seeds or roots. The plant does not pose a significant systemic threat to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Amphiachyris dracunculoides seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly bioavailable, limiting severe systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAmphiachyris dracunculoides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Amphiachyris dracunculoides toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Its flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is this plant suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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