Gamochaeta sphacelata Plant Care

Gamochaeta sphacelata (Gamochaeta sphacelata) belongs to the Asteraceae family within the Gamochaeta genus.

Gamochaeta sphacelata displays a low spreading groundcover growth habit, reaching up to 0.5 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Gamochaeta sphacelata produces small white or yellow flowers in clusters.

Leaf size: approximately 2 inches.

Water a young or newly planted Gamochaeta sphacelata every 7–10 days, soaking the whole root zone, until it is established — usually one to two growing seasons. Established shrubs mainly need water during long dry spells. In a container, water whenever the top few centimetres of soil are dry.

Gamochaeta sphacelata thrives in full sun to partial shade.

Gamochaeta sphacelata tolerates temperatures of 60–80°F. Gamochaeta sphacelata prefers humidity levels of 40–70%.

Well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter. Good drainage is essential for Gamochaeta sphacelata to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Gamochaeta sphacelata every 6 months during the growing season with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at the rate on the label. Established shrubs in good soil often need little extra feeding, so let weak growth or pale foliage guide you.

Stop feeding by late summer so new growth can harden before winter.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Choose a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-draining sandy soil mix with added organic matter. Avoid low spots where water collects after rain.

Gamochaeta sphacelata is suited to USDA Zone 13a.

Plant container-grown or balled-and-burlapped shrubs in spring or early autumn, setting the root flare at soil level, and water well after planting.

Gamochaeta sphacelata can spread to about 2 ft (0.5 m) and reach about 1 ft (0 m) tall. Space plants about 2 ft (0.5 m) apart so mature crowns don't crowd each other, and plant at least half that distance from buildings, fences and paths.

Planning a row or hedge? Try the plant spacing calculator.

Prune Gamochaeta sphacelata while it is dormant in late winter: first remove dead, damaged and crossing branches, then thin lightly for shape.

If it flowers in spring, prune right after flowering instead so you don't remove next year's buds. Never take off more than about a quarter of the shrub in one year.

Gamochaeta sphacelata is frost-tender (hardy to USDA zone 13). In colder areas grow it in a container and move it to a bright, frost-free place before the first frost.

Gamochaeta sphacelata can be propagated through seeds, division.

See all plants toxic to cats and plants toxic to dogs.

Gamochaeta sphacelata is susceptible to aphids, spider mites. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Gamochaeta sphacelata grows outdoors in USDA Zone 13a. It survives winters down to planting zone 13a. In cooler regions, grow Gamochaeta sphacelata as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.