The scientific name for stemmy four-nerve daisy is Tetraneuris scaposa. This delightful little plant is native to the southwestern region of the United States and is known by a variety of common names such as Bitterweed, Four-nerve Daisy, Hymenoxys, Perky Sue, and Yellow Daisy. Its botanical name, Tetraneuris scaposa, reflects its unique characteristics and growth habit.
Tetraneuris scaposa is a compact, clump-forming perennial that remains evergreen throughout the year. It forms a low-growing mat of small, grassy leaves that are blue-green in color. The leaves are narrow and linear, giving the plant a delicate and airy appearance. This perennial is known for its ability to withstand harsh conditions and is often found growing in dry, rocky areas.
One of the distinguishing features of Tetraneuris scaposa is its flowers. The stemmy four-nerve daisy produces bright yellow, daisy-like flowers that add a splash of color to any landscape. The flowers are composed of numerous ray florets surrounding a central disk. Each ray floret has four distinct nerves, which is where the plant gets its common name “four-nerve daisy.” The flowers are typically small in size but are produced in abundance, creating a beautiful display when the plant is in bloom.
In terms of care and cultivation, Tetraneuris scaposa is relatively low-maintenance. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. This perennial is well-adapted to arid climates and is drought-tolerant once established. It is also deer-resistant, making it a suitable choice for gardens where deer may be a problem.
To propagate stemmy four-nerve daisy, one can collect seeds from mature plants and sow them in the desired location. The seeds can be planted directly in the ground in the fall or started indoors and transplanted later. Division of the clumps can also be done in early spring or fall to create new plants.
I have personally had the pleasure of incorporating Tetraneuris scaposa into my own garden. Its low-growing habit and vibrant yellow flowers have added a cheerful touch to my landscape. I find that it pairs well with other native plants and is particularly lovely when planted in mass or as a border plant along pathways or rock gardens.
The scientific name for stemmy four-nerve daisy is Tetraneuris scaposa. This small southwestern native is a hardy and attractive perennial, with its compact growth habit, grassy leaves, and bright yellow flowers. Its ability to thrive in arid conditions and resistance to deer make it a valuable addition to any garden or landscape.
