False sow-thistle (Reichardia tingitana)

False sow-thistle

False sow-thistle (Reichardia tingitana) is a cheerful yellow desert flower that thrives in salty soil. It gets its common name from its similarity to sow-thistles, a related type of daisy. Though it is native to the Mediterranean, false sow-thistle has been introduced in Australia, where it has become a widespread weed.

Scientific classification

Species

False sow-thistle (Reichardia tingitana)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Annual, Perennial

Lifespan

20 cm

Plant Height

2.5 cm to 3.5 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Brown

Flower Color

Semi-evergreen

Leaf type

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of False sow-thistle

Distribution Map

False sow-thistle is indigenous to regions that span from the Mediterranean Basin and the Middle East to parts of the Horn of Africa and southern Asia. Its range includes areas with Mediterranean climates as well as arid and semi-arid zones across these vast territories. Additionally, false sow-thistle has become naturalized elsewhere, marking its presence in parts of Central Europe as an introduced species.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Saline soils, arid deserts, shrub-steppes, sandy depressions, urban sites, coastal dunes, alluvial plains

Hemisphere Trend Curve

Northern

Sorthern

Care Guide for False sow-thistle

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

15 - 35 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Adapted to moderate climates, false sow-thistle prefers evenly moist soil and should be watered weekly to mimic its natural environment. As an herbaceous plant, false sow-thistle thrives outdoors with natural rainfall but requires careful indoor watering to replicate these conditions.

Fertilize: Fertilize false sow-thistle every 4-6 weeks with balanced nutrition during growth; switch to high nitrogen as false sow-thistle matures. Apply sparingly to avoid root damage, adjusting amounts seasonally. Water before and after application, and use gloves for safety in handling fertilizers.

Pruning: False sow-thistle displays bright yellow, dandelion-like flowers and prefers well-drained soil. Prune in early to late spring to enhance growth and shape. Remove dead stems and spent flowers for continuous blooming. Use clean, sharp tools, and prune above a leaf node for best results.

Propagation: False sow-thistle propagation is achieved through sowing in well-draining soil. Maintain moisture without waterlogging and provide adequate light and warmth for germination. Gradually acclimatize young plants to outdoor conditions to enhance their hardiness and resilience.

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Distribution of False sow-thistle

Care Guide for False sow-thistle

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