Tropical Puff
(Neptunia pubescens)
Tropical Puff (Neptunia pubescens)
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Bob Peterson
CC BY 2.0
Image By:
Bob Peterson
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Copyright:
CC BY 2.0
Copyright Notice:
Photo by: Bob Peterson | License Type: CC BY 2.0 | License URL: https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/ | Uploader: bob in swamp | Publisher: Flickr |
Estimated Native Range
Summary
Neptunia pubescens, commonly known as Tropical Puff, is a perennial herb that can behave as an evergreen or deciduous plant depending on the climate. It is native to a variety of habitats including open woodlands, prairies, and marshes in the Southeastern United States, and Mexico to Northern South America. This plant typically reaches a height of 1-2 feet (0.3-0.6 meters) and a spread of 0.3-0.7 feet (0.09-0.2 meters), forming a low, spreading mound. The delicate, feathery foliage is complemented by bright yellow, puffball-like flowers that bloom profusely in the spring, summer, and fall, attracting pollinators.
Tropical Puff is valued for its extended flowering season and its ability to thrive in challenging conditions, including poor, dry soils. It is often used in xeriscaping, as a ground cover, or in borders where its drought tolerance and low maintenance are advantageous. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and requires minimal water once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but in some regions, it may become invasive, so gardeners should monitor its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0
Tropical Puff is valued for its extended flowering season and its ability to thrive in challenging conditions, including poor, dry soils. It is often used in xeriscaping, as a ground cover, or in borders where its drought tolerance and low maintenance are advantageous. While it prefers full sun, it can tolerate partial shade and requires minimal water once established. It is not commonly afflicted by diseases or pests, but in some regions, it may become invasive, so gardeners should monitor its growth.CC BY-SA 4.0
Plant Description
- Plant Type: Herb
- Height: 1-2 feet
- Width: 0.3-0.7 feet
- Growth Rate: Moderate
- Flower Color: Yellow
- Flowering Season: Spring, Summer, Fall
- Leaf Retention: Deciduous
Growth Requirements
- Sun: Full Sun
- Water: Low
- Drainage: Fast
Common Uses
Bee Garden, Butterfly Garden, Low Maintenance
Natural Habitat
Native to open woodlands, prairies, and marshes
Other Names
Common Names: Tropical Neptunia, 毛水含羞
Scientific Names: , Neptunia pubescens, Neptunia pubescens subsp. floridana,
GBIF Accepted Name: Neptunia pubescens Benth.