Goldenwave
thymophylla pentachaeta
Also known as: ["Desert Daisy","Goldenwave Daisy"]
Overview
A small, drought-tolerant annual or short-lived perennial in the Asteraceae family, native to arid regions of North America.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Thymophylla |
| Botanical Name: | Thymophylla pentachaeta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny, open garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid north-facing windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel if needed.
Temperature
Warm to hot (65–90°F / 18–32°C); thrives in arid conditions; tolerates mild frost briefly.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a cactus-specific fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Let callus form.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–80°F / 21–27°C), high humidity (60–70%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with added perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rate.
Timeline
Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter); ensure bottom drainage.
Method
Use fresh cactus mix; ensure excellent drainage; gently tease apart roots if compacted.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil degrades; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting; avoid direct sun for a week.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; use cactus-specific soil mix.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or stunted growth in excessive heat without adequate water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThymophylla pentachaeta is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThymophylla pentachaeta is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThymophylla pentachaeta is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thymophylla pentachaeta toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much water does this plant require?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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