Nodding Microseris
Microseris nutans
- Native to:
- Canada, United States
NPS photo
Taxonomy
- Division:
- Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
- Family:
- Asteraceae
- Genus:
- Microseris
- Species:
- Microseris nutans
- USDA Symbol:
- MINU
Growth Characteristics
- Life Cycle:
- Perennial
- Growth Habit:
- Forb/herb
- Height:
- 80 cm
- Light Requirements:
- Full Sun
- Drought Tolerance:
- Medium
- Bloom Months:
- may,jun,jul
- Bloom Colors:
- yellow
Wildlife Benefits
- Bees:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented bee visitation (GBIF)
- Butterflies & Moths:
- ★☆☆☆☆ Documented Lepidoptera association (GBIF)
Garden & Ecology Notes
- Wildlife Value:
- bees, butterflies
Soil Requirements
- Soil Type:
- well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
- pH:
- 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
- Drainage:
- excellent drainage required
- Moisture:
- dry to moderate
- Notes:
- prefers open, sunny habitats
Propagation & Germination
- Stratification:
- Cold/moist stratification required — 30–60 days
- Germination Time:
- 14–30 days
- Notes:
- Seeds benefit from cold stratification for 4-8 weeks before sowing.
Pre-treatment: 90 or more days of cool, moist stratification maximizes germination. Seed can germinate in cool temperatures.
Establishment: Seed is collected when the pappus begins to expand, usually in June. Daily collections are needed to maximize volume. Seed is stored in paper bags at room temperature until cleaned. Seed should be stored loosely in bags.
Source: npn.rngr.net