Argyranthemum

Family. Asteraceae.

Origin. Canary Islands, in a dry and mild climate.

Description. The genus Argyranthemum includes 23 species of subshrubs, native to the Canary Islands and Madeira. It is a herbaceous perennial plant that is often confused with the daisy. Flowers are about 5 cm in diameter in a wide variety of shades - white, yellow, orange, pink or red, flowering is very abundant. There are terry varieties. The leaves are dark green, fragrant, finely lobed or lobed; in some species they are bluish-green.

Height.  Height 50 - 60 cm, some varieties up to 120 cm. 

Caring for argyranthemum

Growing at home 

In order to bloom profusely throughout the season, argyranthemum needs periodic pruning. In early spring, the branches are cut to 1/3 of their height. Try to prune regularly and the plant will grow dense and fluffy year after year. Remove diseased or dead shoots and flowers. Pinch fading flowers promptly to extend flowering time. 

Reproduction

Stem cuttings and seeds. Cultivation from seeds begins in early spring. Seeds are sown under a plastic cover to maintain uniform moisture. Containers with seedlings are placed in a warm place without direct sunlight. Semi-ripe stem cuttings root easily at temperatures from 20 to 25 ° C for 10 to 15 days. 

Containment temperature

Argyranthemum is a relatively heat-loving plant, does not tolerate frost, however, too high temperatures harm it. With the onset of intense summer heat, argyranthemum may delay flowering. Requires a short winter dormancy period when the temperature drops to 15° C. 

Lighting

Brightly lit window sills are suitable, but it is worth shading the argyranthemum with a light curtain, as it does not tolerate direct sunlight. 

Soil

Very well drained, since the plant can rot due to stagnation of water, nutritious, loose. Too much organic matter in the substrate leads to a rapid increase in green mass in argyranthemum and less lush flowering. 

Fertilizer

Regular fertilizing will allow you to enjoy abundant flowering throughout the summer. Plants respond positively to organic fertilizers. Bushes in the dormant period should not be fertilized.

When it blooms

Almost constantly, for a long period - for example, all summer and until mid-autumn. 

Spraying

If the air is dry during the heating season, spray it periodically. Spraying is carried out only in the morning hours - so that the moisture has time to evaporate before dusk. 

Watering

Do not allow the soil to dry out during the period of active growth and flowering. During the dormant period, reduce watering in accordance with the temperature; be sure to drain excess water from the pan.  Argyranthemum is more likely to tolerate drought than heavy watering. 

Transfer

Argyranthemum is often grown as an annual plant and does not need replanting, but if you decide to leave it for the second year, replant it after flowering and pruning, when the bush enters a dormant period. 

Pests and diseases

There are no serious problems with insects; it also rarely gets sick under the right conditions. Root rot occurs when the watering regime is not followed or there is insufficient drainage. Powdery mildew can appear when there is high air humidity and insufficient air movement.

Sometimes aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, thrips or spider mites attack - in this case, the leaves turn yellow, wither or fall off.

Purpose

A hardy perennial plant that blooms throughout the summer season. Argyranthemum can be grown at home as an annual in open ground.

Note: One of the longest flowering plants, each bush can produce up to 40 flowers.

Varieties:

Argyranthemum frutescens

        In its appearance, this herbaceous perennial resembles a chrysanthemum. Argyranthemum leaves are dark green, intricately cut, and emit a scent when damaged. The flowers are pink, yellow or white, large - up to 7 cm in diameter. 

Argyranthemum Aramis rose

The plant has very abundant and long-lasting flowering. The flowers of this species are painted in a delicate pink shade.