Sunflower Bush
viguiera dentata
Also known as: ["Mexican Sunflower","Toothed Viguiera"]
Overview
A vibrant, fast-growing shrub native to Mexico and the southwestern United States, known for its bright yellow daisy-like flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Viguiera |
| Botanical Name: | Viguiera dentata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container in a warm, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done 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 intense heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in extreme heat; avoid direct sun indoors.
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 or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use raised beds for drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F); tolerates mild frost but prefers above 50°F.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
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 feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may die back in prolonged cold; roots are susceptible to freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants indoors; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicViguiera dentata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines following ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicViguiera dentata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines following ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicViguiera dentata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant has not been documented to cause any adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Viguiera dentata grow?
A: It typically reaches 3–6 feet in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun conditions.
Q: Is it suitable for xeriscaping?
A: Yes, due to its drought tolerance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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