Stolzmannia

Stolzmannia is a genus of flowering plants belonging to the family Asteraceae, commonly known as the daisy family. It comprises a single species, Stolzmannia heterotricha, which is native to the Andes Mountains in Peru and Bolivia. This plant is characterized by its striking, daisy-like flowers and is often cultivated for its ornamental value.

Stolzmannia heterotricha is a perennial herb that typically grows to a height of 10 to 30 centimeters. Its leaves are narrow, lance-shaped, and arranged alternately along the stem. The flowers are solitary, with a bright yellow disc surrounded by white to pale pink ray florets. The plant blooms during the late spring to early summer, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies.

This species thrives in well-drained soils and prefers partial shade, making it suitable for garden settings where it can be grown in borders or rock gardens. Stolzmannia is relatively low-maintenance, requiring minimal watering once established, and is generally resistant to pests and diseases.

In its natural habitat, Stolzmannia heterotricha grows at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 4,000 meters above sea level, where it is adapted to cooler temperatures and seasonal frost. It is often found in grasslands, shrublands, and open woodlands.

Due to its limited natural range and specific growing requirements, Stolzmannia is not widely available in commercial nurseries. However, it is occasionally cultivated by enthusiasts of alpine and Andean plants. Conservation efforts are not widely documented, but its restricted distribution may make it vulnerable to habitat loss.

The genus Stolzmannia is named in honor of German botanist Carl Stolzmann, who contributed to the study of Andean flora in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The specific epithet *heterotricha* refers to the differing hairiness of its leaves and stems, a distinguishing feature of the species.