Woolly Sunflower, Mock Sunflower
achyrachaena mollis
Also known as: ["Mock Sunflower","Woollyhead Senecio"]
Overview
Achyrachaena mollis is an annual herbaceous plant native to western North America, known for its woolly leaves and unique flower heads that resemble sunflowers but are actually composite flowers with a central disk and yellow ray-like structures.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Achyrachaena |
| Botanical Name: | Achyrachaena mollis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 1–2 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid placing near reflective surfaces.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a clean pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for younger plants to encourage growth.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage below 28°F (-2°C); roots are susceptible to freezing in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; move potted plants to sheltered locations; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; water deeply but infrequently to avoid heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; water before fertilizing; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAchyrachaena mollis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines after ingestion of this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAchyrachaena mollis does not contain known toxic substances that would pose a risk to dogs. It is generally considered safe for accidental ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAchyrachaena mollis is not known to produce any toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Achyrachaena mollis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Achyrachaena mollis?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers dry to medium conditions.
Q: Does Achyrachaena mollis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its composite flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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