Clustered Madia
madia glomerata
Also known as: ["Clustered Tarweed","Madia"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to western North America, known for its small yellow flowers that open in the evening and close in the morning.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Madia |
| Botanical Name: | Madia glomerata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open areas with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more extensive pruning in late winter or early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. In hot climates, provide partial shade during the hottest part of the day. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with some protection from intense midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage deep roots; avoid overwatering; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend heavy soil with sand or perlite; avoid overwatering.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler night temperatures but avoids prolonged exposure to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F), humid, and bright but indirect light. Protect from direct sun and drafts.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Madia glomerata prefers slightly root-bound conditions but benefits from fresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; 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 day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or mulch. Ensure good drainage to prevent cold, waterlogged soil. Move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below freezing.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering, especially if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Water deeply and mulch to retain soil moisture. Increase humidity around the plant if grown indoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMadia glomerata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicMadia glomerata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicMadia glomerata is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Madia glomerata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Is Madia glomerata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How much maintenance does Madia glomerata require?
A: It requires low maintenance and is drought tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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