成长记
Candy Thitithada
2018年07月02日
I now added "Senecio Peregrinus : Dolphin Plant" in my "garden"
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Miss Chen
2018年07月01日
The small but mighty pea is a powerhouse of protein packed with disease-reducing vitamins and belly-filling proteins. Dried peas and green peas are basically derived from the same plant and hold the same characteristics, but to a point. They are literally like two peas in a pod with a few minor differences.
Pea School
Although they may seem a separate type of food from the other dried items in your pantry, peas are in the same family as beans and legumes. They are usually considered separate because of their shape.
Peas are spherical, which sets the legumes apart from their legume cousins. To dry peas, they are harvested in the pod when they have reached full maturity, then dried. When peas are fully dried, they split apart at the seam naturally.
The Pea Differential
The cool weather vegetable comes in many varieties. Green peas, snap peas and snow or sugar snap peas are the most common and are available seasonally. Shucking peas is the best way to get the freshest peas. Fresh, juicy and sweet, they are plump and perfect for munching straight from the pod. Steamed fresh peas have a bit of bite when cooked properly, and are a far cry from the variety that becomes dried peas.
Most peas that are sold fresh can be dried, while those that are sold dried aren't usually sold fresh. The fresh peas you find at the grocery store and farmer's market are not the same as those that are harvested for their mature seeds and then dried. It can take up to two weeks to have the mature pea pods completely dry for processing. Mature seeds are higher in starch and make a better dried pea.
Dried peas are built to last and can be stored for years in a cool, dry and preferably dark space. Fresh peas can only be kept cool and crisp in the refrigerator for just a few days before they begin to lose their firm, fibrous structure. Dried peas need to be rehydrated before being consumed.
Pea Health
Although high in fiber, dried peas also offer protein, iron, vitamin C and B vitamins. They provide more than 65 percent of the daily value for fiber. The isoflavones in dried peas are phytonutrients, which have been linked to a reduction in breast and prostate cancer risks. Peas are also part of a heart-healthy diet, lowering the risk of heart disease by more than 80 percent.
Pea School
Although they may seem a separate type of food from the other dried items in your pantry, peas are in the same family as beans and legumes. They are usually considered separate because of their shape.
Peas are spherical, which sets the legumes apart from their legume cousins. To dry peas, they are harvested in the pod when they have reached full maturity, then dried. When peas are fully dried, they split apart at the seam naturally.
The Pea Differential
The cool weather vegetable comes in many varieties. Green peas, snap peas and snow or sugar snap peas are the most common and are available seasonally. Shucking peas is the best way to get the freshest peas. Fresh, juicy and sweet, they are plump and perfect for munching straight from the pod. Steamed fresh peas have a bit of bite when cooked properly, and are a far cry from the variety that becomes dried peas.
Most peas that are sold fresh can be dried, while those that are sold dried aren't usually sold fresh. The fresh peas you find at the grocery store and farmer's market are not the same as those that are harvested for their mature seeds and then dried. It can take up to two weeks to have the mature pea pods completely dry for processing. Mature seeds are higher in starch and make a better dried pea.
Dried peas are built to last and can be stored for years in a cool, dry and preferably dark space. Fresh peas can only be kept cool and crisp in the refrigerator for just a few days before they begin to lose their firm, fibrous structure. Dried peas need to be rehydrated before being consumed.
Pea Health
Although high in fiber, dried peas also offer protein, iron, vitamin C and B vitamins. They provide more than 65 percent of the daily value for fiber. The isoflavones in dried peas are phytonutrients, which have been linked to a reduction in breast and prostate cancer risks. Peas are also part of a heart-healthy diet, lowering the risk of heart disease by more than 80 percent.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月30日
Has your four-year-old ever looked at you begrudgingly over a plate of veggies, and said, “I wish there was an ice cream plant.”? Well, move over parsnips and eggplant, because with some orchid-growing know-how, you can cultivate one of the most aromatic and intoxicating spices on earth for ice cream, coffee drinks, and desserts.
The vanilla orchid is not an easy plant to grow for beginners. Some previous success with orchid growing is beneficial. A greenhouse is also highly desirable, especially for gardeners who don't live in a frost-free climate.
An Ancient Delicacy
How lucky were the ancient Aztec people of Mexico? Not only were they the first to discover the delights of cocoa, they also were the first to harvest the only edible produced by the family Orchidaceae. It's amazing that the secrets of the pods from the genus Vanilla planifolia were ever discovered, as the fresh pods bear no flavor. Only a careful process of steaming and fermentation release the perfumed essence contained within the seeds.
Like many orchids, the vanilla bean orchid is an epiphyte, and lives on a host tree without drawing nutrients from it. The vine clambers up to the treetops in a zigzag fashion, exhibiting long succulent lance-shaped leaves. Each blooming branch will bear one to two dozen creamy blooms, for a total of several hundred flowers on a mature vine.
Put Your Greenhouse to Use
The vanilla orchid, like most orchids, grows best in bright filtered shade and high humidity. Think of the native jungle habitat of the vanilla orchid; you must replicate this as well as possible using a combination of temperature controls and pampering mists and irrigation. Ideal temperatures are between 60-70 degrees F at night, and 80-95 degrees F during the day. The plants are not frost tolerant, which means those who don't live in a tropical climate must use a greenhouse to rear the plants.
In its native habitat, a mature vanilla orchid vine can grow to 300 feet or greater. However, you can keep your vine to a manageable 20 to 30 feet in greenhouse conditions. Training the vine laterally instead of straight up allows you to get more vine in a smaller space.
Planting the Vanilla Orchid
Start your vanilla orchid in a mixture of half bark and half potting mix. This is slightly more dense and heavy than most orchid growing media. Your cutting or small starter plant will need this combination of excellent drainage and nutrients to nourish the plant while the vine develops. After the vine develops its epiphytic roots, it will no longer depend on the roots in the potting mix. Patience is a requirement for those who wish to harvest vanilla pods, as the plants take anywhere from three to five years from cuttings to flower production.
Vanilla Plant Care
Wherever you grow your vanilla orchid, you must provide this large vine with a sturdy support. In tropical climates, a large tree makes an ideal support. If you grow your vine in a conservatory or greenhouse, a solid wood trellis can support the plant. Don’t bother with fancy latticework; a simple lumber structure is stronger and will soon be obscured by the vine.
Fertilize your vanilla orchid every two weeks during the spring and summer with an orchid fertilizer. Mist your plant regularly and make every effort to keep an 80% humidity level.
Hand-pollinate the flowers in the late morning with a chopstick. Remove pollen from the stamen of one flower and place it on the stigma of another flower. If you are able to allow pollinating insects access to your greenhouse, your chances of a successful pollination may increase. Flowers that have pollinated will wither on the vine rather than falling off within a day. Small green pods will form within a week, eventually elongating into six-inch pods, and are ready to harvest in 9-10 months.
Harvesting Your Vanilla Pods
If pollination is successful, your three-year-old vanilla orchid will produce green bean-like pods from October through March. Good quality pods should be at least six inches long. The curing process is labor-intensive, and involves sweating and drying, which contributes to the premium price of vanilla beans sold in markets. Every day for six weeks, you must wrap the beans in a blanket at night to facilitate moisture condensation on the pods. During the day, place the beans on trays in the sun, or under a heat lamp indoors. Following this sweating process, you should dry the now brown and shriveled pods in a dark, dry place for an additional three months. You can store the cured beans in an air tight container indefinitely.
The vanilla orchid is not an easy plant to grow for beginners. Some previous success with orchid growing is beneficial. A greenhouse is also highly desirable, especially for gardeners who don't live in a frost-free climate.
An Ancient Delicacy
How lucky were the ancient Aztec people of Mexico? Not only were they the first to discover the delights of cocoa, they also were the first to harvest the only edible produced by the family Orchidaceae. It's amazing that the secrets of the pods from the genus Vanilla planifolia were ever discovered, as the fresh pods bear no flavor. Only a careful process of steaming and fermentation release the perfumed essence contained within the seeds.
Like many orchids, the vanilla bean orchid is an epiphyte, and lives on a host tree without drawing nutrients from it. The vine clambers up to the treetops in a zigzag fashion, exhibiting long succulent lance-shaped leaves. Each blooming branch will bear one to two dozen creamy blooms, for a total of several hundred flowers on a mature vine.
Put Your Greenhouse to Use
The vanilla orchid, like most orchids, grows best in bright filtered shade and high humidity. Think of the native jungle habitat of the vanilla orchid; you must replicate this as well as possible using a combination of temperature controls and pampering mists and irrigation. Ideal temperatures are between 60-70 degrees F at night, and 80-95 degrees F during the day. The plants are not frost tolerant, which means those who don't live in a tropical climate must use a greenhouse to rear the plants.
In its native habitat, a mature vanilla orchid vine can grow to 300 feet or greater. However, you can keep your vine to a manageable 20 to 30 feet in greenhouse conditions. Training the vine laterally instead of straight up allows you to get more vine in a smaller space.
Planting the Vanilla Orchid
Start your vanilla orchid in a mixture of half bark and half potting mix. This is slightly more dense and heavy than most orchid growing media. Your cutting or small starter plant will need this combination of excellent drainage and nutrients to nourish the plant while the vine develops. After the vine develops its epiphytic roots, it will no longer depend on the roots in the potting mix. Patience is a requirement for those who wish to harvest vanilla pods, as the plants take anywhere from three to five years from cuttings to flower production.
Vanilla Plant Care
Wherever you grow your vanilla orchid, you must provide this large vine with a sturdy support. In tropical climates, a large tree makes an ideal support. If you grow your vine in a conservatory or greenhouse, a solid wood trellis can support the plant. Don’t bother with fancy latticework; a simple lumber structure is stronger and will soon be obscured by the vine.
Fertilize your vanilla orchid every two weeks during the spring and summer with an orchid fertilizer. Mist your plant regularly and make every effort to keep an 80% humidity level.
Hand-pollinate the flowers in the late morning with a chopstick. Remove pollen from the stamen of one flower and place it on the stigma of another flower. If you are able to allow pollinating insects access to your greenhouse, your chances of a successful pollination may increase. Flowers that have pollinated will wither on the vine rather than falling off within a day. Small green pods will form within a week, eventually elongating into six-inch pods, and are ready to harvest in 9-10 months.
Harvesting Your Vanilla Pods
If pollination is successful, your three-year-old vanilla orchid will produce green bean-like pods from October through March. Good quality pods should be at least six inches long. The curing process is labor-intensive, and involves sweating and drying, which contributes to the premium price of vanilla beans sold in markets. Every day for six weeks, you must wrap the beans in a blanket at night to facilitate moisture condensation on the pods. During the day, place the beans on trays in the sun, or under a heat lamp indoors. Following this sweating process, you should dry the now brown and shriveled pods in a dark, dry place for an additional three months. You can store the cured beans in an air tight container indefinitely.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月29日
Spike of FlowerheadsDescription: This perennial plant is 2-5' tall and unbranched. The central stem is light green to purplish green, terete or slightly ridged, and glabrous to sparsely pubescent. The alternate leaves are up to 10" long and about 1/3" (8 mm.) across, becoming smaller as they ascend the stem. Because of their dense distribution, they appear almost whorled. The leaves are linear in shape and their margins are smooth (entire). Each leaf has a distinct central vein. Both the upper and lower leaf surfaces are light to medium green and glabrous to sparsely hairy. The central stem terminates in a wand-like spike of flowerheads about 4-18" in length. These flowerheads are densely crowded along the spike, facing in all directions; they bloom at the top of the spike first, opening later below. Each flowerhead is about 1/3" (8 mm.) across, consisting of 4-10 disk florets and no ray florets. The corolla of each disk floret is pink to purplish pink (rarely white) and narrowly tubular. The upper corolla divides in 5 small lobes that are lanceolate in shape and somewhat recurved. A deeply divided style is strongly exerted from the corolla; it is white to light pink, filiform, and sometimes slightly twisted or curved. Around the base of each flowerhead, there are appressed floral bracts (phyllaries) that are overlapping. These floral bracts are green to purple, glabrous, and oval in shape. The blooming period occurs from mid- to late summer, lasting about 3 weeks. There is no noticeable floral scent. Afterwards, the florets are replaced by small achenes with stiff bristles at their apices; these bristles are light brown. The root system consists of a corm with shallow fibrous roots. Colonies of plants are often formed by means of clonal offsets that involve the production of new corms.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist conditions, and sandy loam. Other soil types, such as loam and gravelly loam, are readily tolerated in cultivation. The soil should possess sufficient organic material to retain moisture. The height of this plant can vary considerably, depending on its maturity, soil moisture, and soil fertility. During hot dry weather, the lower leaves may wither away, otherwise this plant presents few problems.
Range & Habitat: The native Marsh Blazingstar occurs in NE Illinois and a few scattered counties elsewhere (see Distribution Map). It is an uncommon plant in the wild. Habitats include moist black soil prairies, moist sand prairies, prairie swales, edges of marshes and bogs, grassy fens, calcareous seeps, moist alkaline sandflats, and areas along railroads. This blazingstar is found primarily in higher quality natural areas, especially where it is sandy.
Faunal Associations: The flowerheads are cross-pollinated by bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), butterflies, and skippers. These insects suck nectar, although some of the bees also collect pollen for their larvae. Two uncommon prairie insects feed on Liatris spp. (blazingstars): caterpillars of Schinia sanguinea (Liatris Flower Moth) feed on the florets and developing seeds, while caterpillars of Carmenta anthracipennis (Liatris Borer Moth) bore through the stems. Mammalian herbivores eat this and other blazingstars readily; groundhogs and rabbits favor younger plants, while deer and livestock are more likely to browse on mature plants. The corms are eaten by the Prairie Vole and Meadow Vole. An overpopulation of these animals can make the establishment of this plant difficult in some areas.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a moist prairie in Meadowbrook Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Marsh Blazingstar is a very attractive plant while in bloom, resembling a magic wand. It is more common in flower gardens than in the wild, although some cultivated plants may be hybrids with similar species. Among the various Liatris spp. (blazingstars) that are native to Illinois, Prairie Blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya) probably resembles Marsh Blazingstar the most. However, this latter plant has floral bracts (phyllaries) that are strongly recurved, while the floral bracts of Marsh Blazingstar are appressed together and relatively smooth. Other blazingstars within the state are either shorter in height or they have larger flowerheads with more disk florets per head. While other blazingstars are typically found in mesic prairies and various upland habitats, Marsh Blazingstar is unusual in its preference for wetter habitats.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist conditions, and sandy loam. Other soil types, such as loam and gravelly loam, are readily tolerated in cultivation. The soil should possess sufficient organic material to retain moisture. The height of this plant can vary considerably, depending on its maturity, soil moisture, and soil fertility. During hot dry weather, the lower leaves may wither away, otherwise this plant presents few problems.
Range & Habitat: The native Marsh Blazingstar occurs in NE Illinois and a few scattered counties elsewhere (see Distribution Map). It is an uncommon plant in the wild. Habitats include moist black soil prairies, moist sand prairies, prairie swales, edges of marshes and bogs, grassy fens, calcareous seeps, moist alkaline sandflats, and areas along railroads. This blazingstar is found primarily in higher quality natural areas, especially where it is sandy.
Faunal Associations: The flowerheads are cross-pollinated by bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), butterflies, and skippers. These insects suck nectar, although some of the bees also collect pollen for their larvae. Two uncommon prairie insects feed on Liatris spp. (blazingstars): caterpillars of Schinia sanguinea (Liatris Flower Moth) feed on the florets and developing seeds, while caterpillars of Carmenta anthracipennis (Liatris Borer Moth) bore through the stems. Mammalian herbivores eat this and other blazingstars readily; groundhogs and rabbits favor younger plants, while deer and livestock are more likely to browse on mature plants. The corms are eaten by the Prairie Vole and Meadow Vole. An overpopulation of these animals can make the establishment of this plant difficult in some areas.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a moist prairie in Meadowbrook Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Marsh Blazingstar is a very attractive plant while in bloom, resembling a magic wand. It is more common in flower gardens than in the wild, although some cultivated plants may be hybrids with similar species. Among the various Liatris spp. (blazingstars) that are native to Illinois, Prairie Blazingstar (Liatris pycnostachya) probably resembles Marsh Blazingstar the most. However, this latter plant has floral bracts (phyllaries) that are strongly recurved, while the floral bracts of Marsh Blazingstar are appressed together and relatively smooth. Other blazingstars within the state are either shorter in height or they have larger flowerheads with more disk florets per head. While other blazingstars are typically found in mesic prairies and various upland habitats, Marsh Blazingstar is unusual in its preference for wetter habitats.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月29日
Description: This plant is a summer annual about 2-8" tall and similarly across. Large plants are abundantly branched, although small plants are sometimes unbranched. The slender stems are green or reddish green, terete, and glandular-hairy. The leaves occur in opposite pairs or in whorls of 3. They are up to 1" long and ½" across, pinnately lobed, green, and glandular-hairy. Each leaf has 3-7 linear-oblong lobes and a few dentate teeth or small secondary lobes. Because of the sticky foliage, the entire plant may become brownish green if it becomes immersed in muddy water. Individual flowers are produced from the axils of the upper leaves (one flower per leaf axil).
Each flower has a tubular corolla up to ¼" long and a calyx with 5 linear-lanceolate teeth. The corolla is pale blue-violet, lavender, or nearly white, and weakly two-lipped. The upper lip has 1-2 shallow lobes, while the lower lip has 3 shallow lobes. There is no nectar spur on the corolla. The calyx is green and glandular-hairy. The pedicels are up to ¼" long, green or pale reddish green, terete, and glandular-hairy. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall. Individual plants may bloom intermittently for 1-2 months, if not longer. Each flower is replaced with an ovoid seed capsule that is about the same length as the calyx teeth (less than ¼" in length). Each capsule contains many tiny seeds that are light brown and dust-like. The seeds can be carried aloft by the wind or float on water. The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot and fibrous secondary roots. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to full sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil that is muddy, sandy, gravelly, or rocky. Growth and development occur primarily during the summer and early fall. This plant can tolerate occasional inundation by water if it is temporary. It is intolerant of competition from taller ground vegetation.
Range & Habitat: The native Obe-wan-Conobea occurs occasionally in most areas of Illinois, except in the NW, extreme north, and some south-central counties (see Distribution Map). Outside of Illinois, it is found in the Midwest and south-central states. Habitats include prairie swales, sand and gravel bars along rivers, muddy borders of ponds, edges of springs in wooded areas, rocky depressions in limestone bluffs, sandy ditches, edges of mud puddles, and gravelly areas around parking lots. This plant is often found in disturbed areas that are partially shaded; it is also found in higher quality habitats.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relations for this plant. Small bees probably visit the flowers for nectar and possibly pollen. The glandular hairs of the foliage probably deter ants from robbing the nectar. It's possible that the tiny seeds can cling to the muddy feet or moist feathers of waterfowl (especially ducks and geese). When the waterfowl visit other wetlands, this would spread the seeds into new areas.
Photographic Location: Gravelly ground near a parking lot at a shopping mall in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: This is another small annual plant of the Figwort family that produces small tubular flowers. Because of its diminutive size, Obe-Wan-Conobea is easy to overlook, especially when it isn't blooming. The small annual plants of the Figwort family occur in either dry areas or wetlands where there is scant or low ground vegetation. Obe-Wan-Conobea is found in wetlands or moist wooded areas. It differs from other plants in this group by its pinnately lobed leaves, which are sometimes whorled. This makes Obe-Wan-Conobea relatively easy to identify. The derivation of the strange common name comes from a publication of Floyd Swink, who named this plant after a character in the movie Star Wars, although the publisher did not discover this until after his book was already published (John White, personal communication). Another common name for this plant is Narrow-Leaved Paleseed, which was undoubtedly invented by a botanist. A scientific synonym for this species is Conobea multifida.
Each flower has a tubular corolla up to ¼" long and a calyx with 5 linear-lanceolate teeth. The corolla is pale blue-violet, lavender, or nearly white, and weakly two-lipped. The upper lip has 1-2 shallow lobes, while the lower lip has 3 shallow lobes. There is no nectar spur on the corolla. The calyx is green and glandular-hairy. The pedicels are up to ¼" long, green or pale reddish green, terete, and glandular-hairy. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall. Individual plants may bloom intermittently for 1-2 months, if not longer. Each flower is replaced with an ovoid seed capsule that is about the same length as the calyx teeth (less than ¼" in length). Each capsule contains many tiny seeds that are light brown and dust-like. The seeds can be carried aloft by the wind or float on water. The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot and fibrous secondary roots. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to full sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil that is muddy, sandy, gravelly, or rocky. Growth and development occur primarily during the summer and early fall. This plant can tolerate occasional inundation by water if it is temporary. It is intolerant of competition from taller ground vegetation.
Range & Habitat: The native Obe-wan-Conobea occurs occasionally in most areas of Illinois, except in the NW, extreme north, and some south-central counties (see Distribution Map). Outside of Illinois, it is found in the Midwest and south-central states. Habitats include prairie swales, sand and gravel bars along rivers, muddy borders of ponds, edges of springs in wooded areas, rocky depressions in limestone bluffs, sandy ditches, edges of mud puddles, and gravelly areas around parking lots. This plant is often found in disturbed areas that are partially shaded; it is also found in higher quality habitats.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relations for this plant. Small bees probably visit the flowers for nectar and possibly pollen. The glandular hairs of the foliage probably deter ants from robbing the nectar. It's possible that the tiny seeds can cling to the muddy feet or moist feathers of waterfowl (especially ducks and geese). When the waterfowl visit other wetlands, this would spread the seeds into new areas.
Photographic Location: Gravelly ground near a parking lot at a shopping mall in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: This is another small annual plant of the Figwort family that produces small tubular flowers. Because of its diminutive size, Obe-Wan-Conobea is easy to overlook, especially when it isn't blooming. The small annual plants of the Figwort family occur in either dry areas or wetlands where there is scant or low ground vegetation. Obe-Wan-Conobea is found in wetlands or moist wooded areas. It differs from other plants in this group by its pinnately lobed leaves, which are sometimes whorled. This makes Obe-Wan-Conobea relatively easy to identify. The derivation of the strange common name comes from a publication of Floyd Swink, who named this plant after a character in the movie Star Wars, although the publisher did not discover this until after his book was already published (John White, personal communication). Another common name for this plant is Narrow-Leaved Paleseed, which was undoubtedly invented by a botanist. A scientific synonym for this species is Conobea multifida.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月28日
Is your knowledge of succulent plants based on that dusty jade plant in the office corner? The popularity of succulent plants has exploded in recent years, due not only to the low care requirements of these sun lovers, but also because of the diversity these fascinating plants. Special anatomical adaptations and colors make some succulents look like they belong more on another planet than on our windowsill. Here are ten unusual succulents that will add personality and distinction to your garden or houseplant collection.
1.Mexican Hens and Chicks 'Topsy Turvy'
The Echeveria genus of succulents, also known as Mexican hens and chicks, encompasses hundreds of rosette-forming plants native to Mexico, Central America and South America. The squared-off leaf tips of Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy' give it a sea urchin appearance and look handsome when planted in groups or combined with other succulents in a dish garden. Plant 'Topsy Turvy' in a chartreuse pot to show off its pale bluish-green leaves.
2.Plover Eggs
Sometimes called plover eggs plant, Adromischus cooperi sports pudgy little leaves dotted with purplish-grey speckles. The plants are especially sensitive to frost and must not be exposed to temperatures lower than 45 F. The speckles on plover egg plants will become more pronounced in bright sunlight. Plants are easy to propagate by leaf cuttings. Twist off a leaf from the stem and insert into moist cactus mix. Roots will form in four to six weeks.
3.Crinkle Leaf Plant
A South African relative of the kalanchoe, crinkle leaf plants (Adromischus cristatus) feature triangular leaves with lightly ruffled tips. Crinkle leaf plants tolerate a light frost, but grow best in a cool sunny spot with infrequent waterings. Red and white flowers may peek out between the two-inch leaves on mature plants.
4.Pebbled Tiger Jaws
Faucaria felina is the kind of plant that both attracts and repels the temptation to touch the strangely serrated leaves. In addition to the fascinating leaf form of pebbled tiger jaws, the plants may produce golden yellow flowers that nearly obscure the plant in fall and winter. Pebbled tiger jaw plants fill a niche for those who need a shade-tolerant succulent, but they also require more irrigation than most succulents. If the plants become too dry and the leaves separate from the stems, you can use them to start new plants if you act quickly.
5.Baseball Plant
Euphorbia obesa is just the plump character to beef up your indoor container garden. Its spherical shape adds heft and textural interest to plantings, but don't bear the spines one would expect on a round succulent. A weekly watering is pleasing to the baseball plant, and will help it to live a long life in your home. Petite flowers may appear on the top of the globe, giving you a signal that the plant is thriving.
1.Mexican Hens and Chicks 'Topsy Turvy'
The Echeveria genus of succulents, also known as Mexican hens and chicks, encompasses hundreds of rosette-forming plants native to Mexico, Central America and South America. The squared-off leaf tips of Echeveria 'Topsy Turvy' give it a sea urchin appearance and look handsome when planted in groups or combined with other succulents in a dish garden. Plant 'Topsy Turvy' in a chartreuse pot to show off its pale bluish-green leaves.
2.Plover Eggs
Sometimes called plover eggs plant, Adromischus cooperi sports pudgy little leaves dotted with purplish-grey speckles. The plants are especially sensitive to frost and must not be exposed to temperatures lower than 45 F. The speckles on plover egg plants will become more pronounced in bright sunlight. Plants are easy to propagate by leaf cuttings. Twist off a leaf from the stem and insert into moist cactus mix. Roots will form in four to six weeks.
3.Crinkle Leaf Plant
A South African relative of the kalanchoe, crinkle leaf plants (Adromischus cristatus) feature triangular leaves with lightly ruffled tips. Crinkle leaf plants tolerate a light frost, but grow best in a cool sunny spot with infrequent waterings. Red and white flowers may peek out between the two-inch leaves on mature plants.
4.Pebbled Tiger Jaws
Faucaria felina is the kind of plant that both attracts and repels the temptation to touch the strangely serrated leaves. In addition to the fascinating leaf form of pebbled tiger jaws, the plants may produce golden yellow flowers that nearly obscure the plant in fall and winter. Pebbled tiger jaw plants fill a niche for those who need a shade-tolerant succulent, but they also require more irrigation than most succulents. If the plants become too dry and the leaves separate from the stems, you can use them to start new plants if you act quickly.
5.Baseball Plant
Euphorbia obesa is just the plump character to beef up your indoor container garden. Its spherical shape adds heft and textural interest to plantings, but don't bear the spines one would expect on a round succulent. A weekly watering is pleasing to the baseball plant, and will help it to live a long life in your home. Petite flowers may appear on the top of the globe, giving you a signal that the plant is thriving.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月28日
Description: This herbaceous perennial wildflower is usually an emergent aquatic that is exerted 1-3' above the water line, otherwise it is a terrestrial plant of similar height. The stems are usually unbranched, although larger plants are sometimes branched below. The stems are light green, angular-terete, and glabrous. At intervals along each stem, there are pairs of opposite leaves about 2-6" long and ¼-1" across that are either sessile or short-petioled. The deciduous leaves are narrowly lanceolate, linear-lanceolate, elliptic, or narrowly elliptic in shape and usually smooth along their margins. Less often, the outer margins may be slightly undulate or shallowly crenate. Both the upper and lower surfaces of the leaves are medium green and glabrous.
From the axils of the middle to upper leaves, there develops individual spikes of flowers on long peduncles. Each floral spike is about 1" long and capitate (head-like) in appearance; there are several overlapping flowers and buds per spike. Each flower is about ¾" across, consisting of a short-tubular corolla with 4 lobes, a short-tubular calyx with 5 teeth, 2 stamens with dark purple or dark brown anthers, and an ovary with a slender white style. The corolla has a shallowly notched upper lobe that curves backward, 2 lateral lobes that are widely spreading, and a lower lobe that curves slightly downward. Except for the dark purple mottling at the base of the lower lobe, the lobes are mostly white, otherwise they are tinted pale purple or they are lightly speckled with fine purple dots. The lobes of the corolla are longer than the corolla tube, and they are oblong to oblong-oblanceolate in shape. The green calyx is about ¼" long and glabrous; its teeth are narrowly lanceolate. The ascending straight peduncles are a little shorter to about as long as the leaves (up to 6" in length); they are medium green, angular, and glabrous. The blooming period occurs from early summer into the fall, lasting about 2-4 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by seed capsules up to ½" long that taper to stipe-like bases. Each capsule has 2 cells, and each cell contains 2 seeds. The seeds are about 1/8" (3 mm.) in length and warty. The root system is highly rhizomatous, forming colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, shallow standing water (up to 3' deep) or wet conditions, and soil that is muddy, sandy, or gravelly.
Range & Habitat: The native Water Willow is occasional in most areas of Illinois, except the NW section of the state, where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandbars, gravelbars, or mudbars of rivers, low islands in rivers or ponds, shallow water or muddy banks of ponds and rivers, shallow water of rocky upland streams, shallow water or wet areas of swamps, and sandy marshes. Water Willow occurs in wetlands with either stagnant water or slow to moderate currents of water.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees (Anthophora spp.), little carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp., Synhalonia spp.), leaf-cutter bees (Megachile spp.), green metallic bees, and other Halictid bees. Other floral visitors include various wasps, bee flies (Bombyliidae), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), Syrphid flies (non-pollinating), small butterflies, and skippers. These insects obtain primarily nectar from the flowers, although some bees collect pollen and some flies feed on pollen. Water Willow is one of the host plants for the caterpillars of Darapsa versicolor (Hydrangea Sphinx); they feed on the foliage. This plant is also a minor source of food for muskrats.
Photographic Location: A sandy marsh at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: The flowers of Water Willow are fairly showy and bloom intermittently for a long period of time. In spite of its common name, this is a non-woody herbaceous plant that is not closely related to willows (Salix). Water Willow is the most northern member of its genus. Another species that can be found in southern Illinois, Justicia ovata (Southern Water Willow), is a slightly smaller plant with wider leaves and more loosely flowered spikes. Otherwise, these two species have a similar appearance and prefer similar habitats. A scientific synonym of Water Willow is Dianthera americana.
From the axils of the middle to upper leaves, there develops individual spikes of flowers on long peduncles. Each floral spike is about 1" long and capitate (head-like) in appearance; there are several overlapping flowers and buds per spike. Each flower is about ¾" across, consisting of a short-tubular corolla with 4 lobes, a short-tubular calyx with 5 teeth, 2 stamens with dark purple or dark brown anthers, and an ovary with a slender white style. The corolla has a shallowly notched upper lobe that curves backward, 2 lateral lobes that are widely spreading, and a lower lobe that curves slightly downward. Except for the dark purple mottling at the base of the lower lobe, the lobes are mostly white, otherwise they are tinted pale purple or they are lightly speckled with fine purple dots. The lobes of the corolla are longer than the corolla tube, and they are oblong to oblong-oblanceolate in shape. The green calyx is about ¼" long and glabrous; its teeth are narrowly lanceolate. The ascending straight peduncles are a little shorter to about as long as the leaves (up to 6" in length); they are medium green, angular, and glabrous. The blooming period occurs from early summer into the fall, lasting about 2-4 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by seed capsules up to ½" long that taper to stipe-like bases. Each capsule has 2 cells, and each cell contains 2 seeds. The seeds are about 1/8" (3 mm.) in length and warty. The root system is highly rhizomatous, forming colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, shallow standing water (up to 3' deep) or wet conditions, and soil that is muddy, sandy, or gravelly.
Range & Habitat: The native Water Willow is occasional in most areas of Illinois, except the NW section of the state, where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandbars, gravelbars, or mudbars of rivers, low islands in rivers or ponds, shallow water or muddy banks of ponds and rivers, shallow water of rocky upland streams, shallow water or wet areas of swamps, and sandy marshes. Water Willow occurs in wetlands with either stagnant water or slow to moderate currents of water.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, Anthophorine bees (Anthophora spp.), little carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp., Triepeolus spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp., Synhalonia spp.), leaf-cutter bees (Megachile spp.), green metallic bees, and other Halictid bees. Other floral visitors include various wasps, bee flies (Bombyliidae), thick-headed flies (Conopidae), Syrphid flies (non-pollinating), small butterflies, and skippers. These insects obtain primarily nectar from the flowers, although some bees collect pollen and some flies feed on pollen. Water Willow is one of the host plants for the caterpillars of Darapsa versicolor (Hydrangea Sphinx); they feed on the foliage. This plant is also a minor source of food for muskrats.
Photographic Location: A sandy marsh at the Heron Boardwalk in Vermilion County, Illinois.
Comments: The flowers of Water Willow are fairly showy and bloom intermittently for a long period of time. In spite of its common name, this is a non-woody herbaceous plant that is not closely related to willows (Salix). Water Willow is the most northern member of its genus. Another species that can be found in southern Illinois, Justicia ovata (Southern Water Willow), is a slightly smaller plant with wider leaves and more loosely flowered spikes. Otherwise, these two species have a similar appearance and prefer similar habitats. A scientific synonym of Water Willow is Dianthera americana.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月28日
Description: This perennial plant is 2-3' tall. It produces clumps of basal leaves that are sword-shaped and up to 3' long; they are mostly erect, although some of the larger leaves may become arched. These leaves are bluish green to green and glabrous. Individual leaves are up to 1" across near their bases, tapering very gradually to pointed tips. Leaf margins are smooth (entire) and leaf venation is parallel. The flowering stalks are either unbranched or sparingly branched and up to 3' tall; they are green, terete, and glabrous. Each stalk produces one or more small alternate leaves that are erect and sword-like. From the axil of each alternate leaf, there develops 1-2 flowers on pedicels 1-5" in length. Both the flowering stalks and pedicels are terete and glabrous. Each pedicel is enfolded by a pair of sword-like spathes that become chaffy with age.
The blue-violet flowers are up to 3½" across, consisting of 3 sepals, 3 petals, 3 stamens, 3 style-branches with stigmata, and a green ovary that is elongated and angular. The petaloid sepals are oblanceolate in shape and spread outward from the center of the flower; they are blue-violet with prominent patches of yellow and white with fine purple veins. The sepals are without tufted hairs. Extending directly above the sepals, are the shorter petaloid style-branches; they are blue-violet and oblong in shape with upturned tips, forming open tubular structures with the sepals. The ascending petals are blue-violet and oblanceolate in shape with darker purple veins. The blooming period is late spring to early summer, and lasts about a month for a colony of plants, although individual flowers are short-lived. There is a pleasant floral fragrance. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by oblongoid capsules that are 3-angled. These capsules are about 1½–2" long and ½" across; they contain rows of tightly stacked seeds. After the capsules split open, the seeds can float on water, spreading to new areas via water currents. The root system consists of fleshy rhizomes with coarse fibrous roots. Colonies of plants often develop from the rhizomes.
Cultivation: The preference is wet to moist conditions, partial to full sun, and a rich organic soil. In light shade, this plant often fails to flower, and it tends to decline in abundance if conditions become too dry. The foliage is rarely bothered by disease. To maintain the viability of the seeds, they should not be allowed to dry out – store them with some moist sand.
Range & Habitat: The native Blue Flag Iris is surprisingly common in most areas of Illinois, except for some southern and western counties where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include wet to moist black soil prairies, prairie swales, soggy meadows along rivers, open bottomland woodlands, swamps, fens, seeps, edges of ponds and streams, ditches, and low-lying ground along railroads and roadsides. Declining remnant populations can be found in some low woodland areas where fire has been surpressed.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by bumblebees and long-horned bees (Synhalonia spp.); butterflies and skippers also visit the flowers occasionally, but they are less effective at cross-pollination. These insects suck nectar from the flowers primarily, although some of the bees also collect pollen. Some insects feed on Blue Flag Iris and other Iris spp. destructively. They include such species as the weevil Mononychus vulpeculus (larvae feed inside seed capsules), the Agromyzid fly Cerodontha magnicornis (larvae mine leaves), the Syrphid fly Eumerus tuberculatus (larvae feed on rhizomes), the mealybug Rhizoecus falcifer (feeds on rhizomes), the aphid Dysaphis tulipae (feeds on foliage & rhizomes), and the thrips Frankliniella occidentalis (feeds on flowers). Caterpillars of such moths as Ctenucha virginica (Virginia Ctenucha), Spilosoma congrua (Agreeable Tiger Moth), and Macronoctua onusta (Iris Borer Moth), also feed on these plants. Mammalian herbivores rarely bother this plant because the foliage and rootstocks are somewhat toxic, causing irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a wet prairie along an abandoned railroad near Urbana, Illinois, and at a prairie swale in Meadowbrook Park of the same city.
Comments: This attractive plant is more typical of wetlands than true prairies, but it sometimes spreads into adjacent sunny areas that are moist. Cultivars of Iris X germanica (German Iris) have beards (numerous hairs) on their sepals, while the Blue Flag Iris is beardless. The Blue Flag Iris resembles another native species, Iris brevicaulis (Blue Marsh Iris), but this latter species has 6-angled capsules and flowering stalks that are slightly zigzag. Another native species, Iris versicolor (Northern Blue Flag), is very similar in appearance to the Blue Flag Iris, but it has a more northern distribution (the upper Great Lakes and NE USA, including northern Wisconsin). Another scientific name for the Blue Flag Iris is Iris shrevei; another common name for this species is the Southern Blue Flag.
The blue-violet flowers are up to 3½" across, consisting of 3 sepals, 3 petals, 3 stamens, 3 style-branches with stigmata, and a green ovary that is elongated and angular. The petaloid sepals are oblanceolate in shape and spread outward from the center of the flower; they are blue-violet with prominent patches of yellow and white with fine purple veins. The sepals are without tufted hairs. Extending directly above the sepals, are the shorter petaloid style-branches; they are blue-violet and oblong in shape with upturned tips, forming open tubular structures with the sepals. The ascending petals are blue-violet and oblanceolate in shape with darker purple veins. The blooming period is late spring to early summer, and lasts about a month for a colony of plants, although individual flowers are short-lived. There is a pleasant floral fragrance. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by oblongoid capsules that are 3-angled. These capsules are about 1½–2" long and ½" across; they contain rows of tightly stacked seeds. After the capsules split open, the seeds can float on water, spreading to new areas via water currents. The root system consists of fleshy rhizomes with coarse fibrous roots. Colonies of plants often develop from the rhizomes.
Cultivation: The preference is wet to moist conditions, partial to full sun, and a rich organic soil. In light shade, this plant often fails to flower, and it tends to decline in abundance if conditions become too dry. The foliage is rarely bothered by disease. To maintain the viability of the seeds, they should not be allowed to dry out – store them with some moist sand.
Range & Habitat: The native Blue Flag Iris is surprisingly common in most areas of Illinois, except for some southern and western counties where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include wet to moist black soil prairies, prairie swales, soggy meadows along rivers, open bottomland woodlands, swamps, fens, seeps, edges of ponds and streams, ditches, and low-lying ground along railroads and roadsides. Declining remnant populations can be found in some low woodland areas where fire has been surpressed.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by bumblebees and long-horned bees (Synhalonia spp.); butterflies and skippers also visit the flowers occasionally, but they are less effective at cross-pollination. These insects suck nectar from the flowers primarily, although some of the bees also collect pollen. Some insects feed on Blue Flag Iris and other Iris spp. destructively. They include such species as the weevil Mononychus vulpeculus (larvae feed inside seed capsules), the Agromyzid fly Cerodontha magnicornis (larvae mine leaves), the Syrphid fly Eumerus tuberculatus (larvae feed on rhizomes), the mealybug Rhizoecus falcifer (feeds on rhizomes), the aphid Dysaphis tulipae (feeds on foliage & rhizomes), and the thrips Frankliniella occidentalis (feeds on flowers). Caterpillars of such moths as Ctenucha virginica (Virginia Ctenucha), Spilosoma congrua (Agreeable Tiger Moth), and Macronoctua onusta (Iris Borer Moth), also feed on these plants. Mammalian herbivores rarely bother this plant because the foliage and rootstocks are somewhat toxic, causing irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a wet prairie along an abandoned railroad near Urbana, Illinois, and at a prairie swale in Meadowbrook Park of the same city.
Comments: This attractive plant is more typical of wetlands than true prairies, but it sometimes spreads into adjacent sunny areas that are moist. Cultivars of Iris X germanica (German Iris) have beards (numerous hairs) on their sepals, while the Blue Flag Iris is beardless. The Blue Flag Iris resembles another native species, Iris brevicaulis (Blue Marsh Iris), but this latter species has 6-angled capsules and flowering stalks that are slightly zigzag. Another native species, Iris versicolor (Northern Blue Flag), is very similar in appearance to the Blue Flag Iris, but it has a more northern distribution (the upper Great Lakes and NE USA, including northern Wisconsin). Another scientific name for the Blue Flag Iris is Iris shrevei; another common name for this species is the Southern Blue Flag.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月27日
Description: This plant is a summer annual that becomes 2-5' tall, branching occasionally. The round stems are glabrous and succulent, pale green to pale reddish green, and somewhat translucent. They are rather fragile and break easily. The alternate leaves are up to 5" long and 2½" across, although they are usually about half this size. The leaves are ovate, thin-textured, and hairless. There are low broad teeth along their margins. While the stems are often shiny, the leaves have a dull upper surface. The slender petioles are up to 2" long and usually shorter than the blades of the leaves.
From the axils of the upper leaves, there occurs small clusters of 1-3 orange flowers. These flowers are held horizontally on drooping pedicels. Each flower is about 1" long and has a conical shape with upper and lower lips. There are 3 sepals and 5 petals (although this is difficult to discern). Two lateral sepals are small and membrananous; they are light green to light yellow and are located behind the upper lip. The third sepal forms the conical posterior of the flower, including the small nectar spur. This portion of the flower is typically light orange and shiny; the nectar spur usually bends forward to a position underneath the rest of the flower. The petals form the front of the flower and are usually dark orange with reddish streaks or brown dots. One petal forms the upper lip, which is curved upward, while 2 fused petals form the lower lip. The lower lip often is divided into 2 lobes and functions as a landing pad for visiting insects. There are also 2 smaller lateral petals between the upper and lower lips of the flower. A cluster of stamens with white anthers lies underneath the ovary near the upper lip. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall, and lasts about 2 months. There is no floral scent. During the fall, insignificant cleistogamous flowers form seed capsules with fertile seeds without any need for cross-pollination. These oblong seed capsules are divided into 5 sections, which split apart, flinging the large seeds a considerable distance. The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot. This plant often forms colonies by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and a fertile soil with an abundance of organic material. Submergence of the roots by flood water is tolerated for up to 2 weeks without apparent ill-effects. Sometimes the leaves are affected by mildew late in the year. It is easy to start this plant from seed.
Range & Habitat: The native Orange Jewelweed is a common plant that occurs in most counties of Illinois; it is less common in the NW area of the state. Habitats include openings in moist woodlands, partially or lightly shaded floodplains along rivers, edges of woodland paths, swamps, seeps and fens, and roadside ditches. This species tolerates disturbance better than most wetland plants.
Faunal Associations: The flowers attract the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird and long-tongued bees, including bumblebees and honeybees. Swallowtail butterflies are less common visitors. These visitors seek nectar; many long-tongued bees also collect pollen. Sometimes bumblebees will steal nectar by chewing holes near the spur of the flower. Various smaller insects (e.g., Syrphid flies) will visit the same holes to steal nectar. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, including Euchlaena obtusaria (Obtuse Euchlaena), Spilosoma latipennis (Pink-Legged Tiger Moth), Trichodezia albovittata (White-Striped Black), and Xanthorhoe lacustrata (Toothed Brown Carpet). Upland gamebirds eat the large seeds, including the Ruffed Grouse, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Greater Prairie Chicken, and Bobwhite Quail. Among mammals, White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage, while the White-Footed Mouse eats the seeds.
Photographic Location: A partially shaded roadside ditch along a woods near Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: The attractive orange flowers glisten in the sunlight, hence the name 'Jewelweed.' The other Jewelweed in this genus is Impatiens pallida (Yellow Jewelweed). The latter has similar foliage, but its flowers are pale yellow. The Jewelweeds have a muciliginous sap that is supposed to soothe skin irritation caused by Poison Ivy and Stinging Nettle. This sap also has fungicidal properties and has been used to treat Athlete's Foot. The cultivated Impatiens of the horticultural industry have been introduced from such areas as East Africa and New Guinea. They rarely escape from cultivation and are not considered a significant threat to native habitats.
From the axils of the upper leaves, there occurs small clusters of 1-3 orange flowers. These flowers are held horizontally on drooping pedicels. Each flower is about 1" long and has a conical shape with upper and lower lips. There are 3 sepals and 5 petals (although this is difficult to discern). Two lateral sepals are small and membrananous; they are light green to light yellow and are located behind the upper lip. The third sepal forms the conical posterior of the flower, including the small nectar spur. This portion of the flower is typically light orange and shiny; the nectar spur usually bends forward to a position underneath the rest of the flower. The petals form the front of the flower and are usually dark orange with reddish streaks or brown dots. One petal forms the upper lip, which is curved upward, while 2 fused petals form the lower lip. The lower lip often is divided into 2 lobes and functions as a landing pad for visiting insects. There are also 2 smaller lateral petals between the upper and lower lips of the flower. A cluster of stamens with white anthers lies underneath the ovary near the upper lip. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall, and lasts about 2 months. There is no floral scent. During the fall, insignificant cleistogamous flowers form seed capsules with fertile seeds without any need for cross-pollination. These oblong seed capsules are divided into 5 sections, which split apart, flinging the large seeds a considerable distance. The root system consists of a shallow branching taproot. This plant often forms colonies by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and a fertile soil with an abundance of organic material. Submergence of the roots by flood water is tolerated for up to 2 weeks without apparent ill-effects. Sometimes the leaves are affected by mildew late in the year. It is easy to start this plant from seed.
Range & Habitat: The native Orange Jewelweed is a common plant that occurs in most counties of Illinois; it is less common in the NW area of the state. Habitats include openings in moist woodlands, partially or lightly shaded floodplains along rivers, edges of woodland paths, swamps, seeps and fens, and roadside ditches. This species tolerates disturbance better than most wetland plants.
Faunal Associations: The flowers attract the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird and long-tongued bees, including bumblebees and honeybees. Swallowtail butterflies are less common visitors. These visitors seek nectar; many long-tongued bees also collect pollen. Sometimes bumblebees will steal nectar by chewing holes near the spur of the flower. Various smaller insects (e.g., Syrphid flies) will visit the same holes to steal nectar. The caterpillars of several moths feed on the foliage, including Euchlaena obtusaria (Obtuse Euchlaena), Spilosoma latipennis (Pink-Legged Tiger Moth), Trichodezia albovittata (White-Striped Black), and Xanthorhoe lacustrata (Toothed Brown Carpet). Upland gamebirds eat the large seeds, including the Ruffed Grouse, Ring-Necked Pheasant, Greater Prairie Chicken, and Bobwhite Quail. Among mammals, White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage, while the White-Footed Mouse eats the seeds.
Photographic Location: A partially shaded roadside ditch along a woods near Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: The attractive orange flowers glisten in the sunlight, hence the name 'Jewelweed.' The other Jewelweed in this genus is Impatiens pallida (Yellow Jewelweed). The latter has similar foliage, but its flowers are pale yellow. The Jewelweeds have a muciliginous sap that is supposed to soothe skin irritation caused by Poison Ivy and Stinging Nettle. This sap also has fungicidal properties and has been used to treat Athlete's Foot. The cultivated Impatiens of the horticultural industry have been introduced from such areas as East Africa and New Guinea. They rarely escape from cultivation and are not considered a significant threat to native habitats.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月27日
Description: This wildflower is either a short-lived perennial or summer annual. It is usually a short bushy plant about 4–18" tall, although larger specimens have been reported. The much-branched stems are light to medium green, glabrous, sometimes glaucous, 4-angled or terete, and sometimes narrowly winged. The opposite leaves are about ½–1½" long, ¼–¾" across, and sessile; they are medium green, broadly oblong to oval in shape with 1-5 prominent veins, smooth among their margins, and glabrous. The upper stems terminate in small clusters (cymes) of flowers. Individual flowers are ¼" across, consisting of 5 yellow to yellow-orangeFlowering Plant petals, 5 green sepals, a light green pistil with 3 styles, and 5-15 stamens. The petals and sepals are about the same length; the petals are oblong, while the sepals are linear-oblong. The peduncle and pedicels of the flowers are light to medium green, slender, and glabrous; sometimes there are small scale-like bracts near the area where two pedicels diverge. These bracts are linear-lanceolate in shape and much smaller in size than the leaves. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 2-3 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Each flower is replaced by an ovoid seed capsule that becomes up to 1/3" (8 mm.) tall at maturity; this glabrous capsule has remnants of the styles at its apex and it is 3-celled. Each cell of the capsule contains numerous tiny seeds that are dark-colored, narrowly oblongoid, and somewhat flattened. The persistent sepals become enlarged as the seed capsules mature; the sepals are usually about the same length or a little longer than full-sized capsules. This wildflower reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet to moist conditions, and acidic soil that is either sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf St. John's Wort is occasional in most areas of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandy forests in floodplain areas, sandy swamps, wet to moist sand prairies, gravelly seeps and springs with an acidic bedrock (e.g., sandstone), damp depressions in sandstone glades, damp depressions along sandstone cliffs, low sandy areas along rivers and ponds, damp depressions in sandy paths, and abandoned sandy fields. This wildflower is found in both disturbed and little-disturbed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by small bees, which collect pollen. Some flies may visit the flowers to feed on the pollen. Nectar is not available as a floral reward. There are a small number of insects that feed on various parts of Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths, some leaf beetles, the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak). See the Insect Table for a listing of these insect species. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage because of its toxicity. The foliage contains hypericin, which produces a photosensitive reaction to sunlight, particularly in light-skinned animals.
Photographic Location: A damp depression in a sandy path at the Iroquois County Conservation Area in Illinois.
Comments: This wildflower resembles a dwarf version of the better-known Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). Other small-flowered Hypericum spp. (flowers 1/3" across or less) usually have more narrow leaves and therefore are easily distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort. An exception is Hypericum boreale (Northern St. John's Wort), which is rare in Illinois. Generally, Northern St. John's Wort can be distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort and other small-flowered species in this genus by its leafy floral bracts, which resemble small leaves. It also has purple seed capsules that are as long or longer than its sepals. Dwarf St. John's Wort, in contrast, has tiny scale-like floral bracts and its seed capsules usually remain green for a longer period of time.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet to moist conditions, and acidic soil that is either sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf St. John's Wort is occasional in most areas of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandy forests in floodplain areas, sandy swamps, wet to moist sand prairies, gravelly seeps and springs with an acidic bedrock (e.g., sandstone), damp depressions in sandstone glades, damp depressions along sandstone cliffs, low sandy areas along rivers and ponds, damp depressions in sandy paths, and abandoned sandy fields. This wildflower is found in both disturbed and little-disturbed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by small bees, which collect pollen. Some flies may visit the flowers to feed on the pollen. Nectar is not available as a floral reward. There are a small number of insects that feed on various parts of Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths, some leaf beetles, the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak). See the Insect Table for a listing of these insect species. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage because of its toxicity. The foliage contains hypericin, which produces a photosensitive reaction to sunlight, particularly in light-skinned animals.
Photographic Location: A damp depression in a sandy path at the Iroquois County Conservation Area in Illinois.
Comments: This wildflower resembles a dwarf version of the better-known Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). Other small-flowered Hypericum spp. (flowers 1/3" across or less) usually have more narrow leaves and therefore are easily distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort. An exception is Hypericum boreale (Northern St. John's Wort), which is rare in Illinois. Generally, Northern St. John's Wort can be distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort and other small-flowered species in this genus by its leafy floral bracts, which resemble small leaves. It also has purple seed capsules that are as long or longer than its sepals. Dwarf St. John's Wort, in contrast, has tiny scale-like floral bracts and its seed capsules usually remain green for a longer period of time.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月26日
Description: This annual plant is about 3-10" tall and more or less erect. It form short side branches along the upper half of the central stem, and sometimes branches along its lower half as well. The stems are light green and pubescent. The middle to upper opposite leaves are lanceolate, oblanceolate, or ovate; they are up to 1¾" long and ½" across. In contrast, the lowermost opposite leaves are linear-oblong; they are about the same length as the other leaves, but more narrow. Both kinds of leaves are light to medium green, hairless, sessile, and dentate or smooth along the margins.
Individual flowers develop from the axils of the upper leaves on pedicels up to 1" long. Each flower has a tubular corolla about 1/3" long and a short tubular calyx with 5 teeth. The front of the corolla is mostly white, while its lower exterior is pale yellow or green with fine veins. The outer rim of the corolla has several spreading lobes that are short and rounded. Inside the corolla, there are 2 fertile stamens, 2 abortive stamens, and a slender style. The exterior of the calyx is green and pubescent; its teeth are slender and often recurved. At the base of each flower, there are a pair of small leafy bracts that are lanceolate or lanceolate-linear in shape. The blooming period can occur from late spring into the fall. While this is a long time period, individual plants usually bloom for only 1-2 months before they die down. Each flower is replaced by a small seed capsule that is ovoid and pointed at its apex; it contains many small seeds. The root system consists of a slender branching taproot. This plant spreads by reseeding itself, and it readily forms colonies at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet conditions, and exposed muddy soil. Shallow water is tolerated if it is temporary. This opportunistic plant develops very quickly from seed when the ground is wet. It also dies down quickly after its seeds become mature.
Range & Habitat: Clammy Hedge Hyssop is occasional to locally common throughout Illinois, where it is native. Habitats include floodplain forests, muddy depressions in upland woodlands, gravelly seeps, degraded soggy meadows, mud puddles along woodland paths, and poorly drained fields. This little plant likes to colonize disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract Halictid bees and other small bees. The tiny seeds probably cling to the feet of animals and the shoes of humans as they pass through the muddy areas where this plant grows. Later, these seeds are released into new areas where they may germinate.
Photographic Location: A muddy depression in Busey Woods, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is another small annual in the Figwort family. Unless a large colony happens to be in bloom, it is easy to overlook. Clammy Hedge Hyssop can be distinguished from a similar species, Gratiola virginiana (Round-Fruited Hedge Hyssop), by its pubescent stems and ovoid seed capsules. In contrast, the latter species has succulent glabrous stems and globoid seed capsules. Another small annual in the Figwort family that likes wetland areas, Lindernia dubia (False Pimpernel), lacks pairs of leafy bracts underneath its flowers. Its leaves are usually wider in shape and more shiny than those of Clammy Hedge Hyssop. In spite of the common name, Clammy Hedge Hyssop is not normally found around hedges. This probably refers to the habitat preferences of a European species in this genus.
Individual flowers develop from the axils of the upper leaves on pedicels up to 1" long. Each flower has a tubular corolla about 1/3" long and a short tubular calyx with 5 teeth. The front of the corolla is mostly white, while its lower exterior is pale yellow or green with fine veins. The outer rim of the corolla has several spreading lobes that are short and rounded. Inside the corolla, there are 2 fertile stamens, 2 abortive stamens, and a slender style. The exterior of the calyx is green and pubescent; its teeth are slender and often recurved. At the base of each flower, there are a pair of small leafy bracts that are lanceolate or lanceolate-linear in shape. The blooming period can occur from late spring into the fall. While this is a long time period, individual plants usually bloom for only 1-2 months before they die down. Each flower is replaced by a small seed capsule that is ovoid and pointed at its apex; it contains many small seeds. The root system consists of a slender branching taproot. This plant spreads by reseeding itself, and it readily forms colonies at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet conditions, and exposed muddy soil. Shallow water is tolerated if it is temporary. This opportunistic plant develops very quickly from seed when the ground is wet. It also dies down quickly after its seeds become mature.
Range & Habitat: Clammy Hedge Hyssop is occasional to locally common throughout Illinois, where it is native. Habitats include floodplain forests, muddy depressions in upland woodlands, gravelly seeps, degraded soggy meadows, mud puddles along woodland paths, and poorly drained fields. This little plant likes to colonize disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract Halictid bees and other small bees. The tiny seeds probably cling to the feet of animals and the shoes of humans as they pass through the muddy areas where this plant grows. Later, these seeds are released into new areas where they may germinate.
Photographic Location: A muddy depression in Busey Woods, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is another small annual in the Figwort family. Unless a large colony happens to be in bloom, it is easy to overlook. Clammy Hedge Hyssop can be distinguished from a similar species, Gratiola virginiana (Round-Fruited Hedge Hyssop), by its pubescent stems and ovoid seed capsules. In contrast, the latter species has succulent glabrous stems and globoid seed capsules. Another small annual in the Figwort family that likes wetland areas, Lindernia dubia (False Pimpernel), lacks pairs of leafy bracts underneath its flowers. Its leaves are usually wider in shape and more shiny than those of Clammy Hedge Hyssop. In spite of the common name, Clammy Hedge Hyssop is not normally found around hedges. This probably refers to the habitat preferences of a European species in this genus.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月26日
1.Crassula Plants
:Succulent plants offer low maintenance and diverse shapes and textures, both in the garden and indoors. Crassula is a diverse and extensive genus of succulent plants, with about 350 species. Probably the most well-known is Jade plant (Crassula ovata). Many of us know it as a houseplant, but in warm climates, it grows into a shrub.
Many other Crassula species are much smaller, including some miniatures and creeping ground covers. They are all quite fascinating, the types of plants you see occasionally and wonder "What is that?" With the resurgence of succulent container gardening, these smaller Crassula species are becoming more readily available and their easy growing habit makes them worth getting to know.
Botanical Name
Crassula spp.
Common Names
Because of the shapes and forms of their leaves, Crassula plants lend themselves to very descriptive common names. Crassula barklyi, the 'Rattlesnake Plant', looks like the tip of the snake's tail. Crassula argentea, shown here, is called ‘Living Coral’. Crassula perforata, with it's twirling leaves stacked one on top of another is known as 'String of Buttons'. This is an intriguing genus of plants.
Hardiness Zones
Most Crassula species are only reliably hardy in USDA Zones 9 - 10, but elsewhere you could bring them indoors for the winter. They won't get as large as plants grown outdoors, but they make great houseplants.
Sun Exposure
Full sun to partial shade. Most Crassula plants need some shade in the hottest part of summer, but require bright light to attain their most vibrant color. A site with morning sun and afternoon shade would be perfect.
Mature Plant Size
Size will vary with species and variety, from shrubs several feet tall to tiny specimens of a couple of inches.
Bloom Period
Spring and summer. Some varieties of Crassula have lovely flowers and others are insignificant. Many gardeners remove the flowers that are not particularly showy.
Design Tips for Crassula
The smaller Crassula are perfect container plants - low maintenance, evergreen and eye-catching. If you have the climate, the plants look terrific tucked into and hanging over walls.
Jade plants in their natural element will be one of the easiest to maintain plants in your garden. Their dark, glossy green color is a great foil for almost any flower color.
Suggested Crassula Varieties to Grow
There are so many to choose from, you may become a collector. Here are a few that might catch your eye.
Crassula "Morgan’s Beauty": Thick silver leaves dusted in white, with pretty pink late spring flowers. Grows about 8 inches wide.
Crassula erosula "Campfire'": Long branching leaves turn blazing red in winter. A clump former that grows about 1 ft. tall and spreads 3 ft. wide.
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis "Variegata": a flowing mass of heart-shaped leaves variegated in pink, green and creamy yellow. Nice in a hanging pot.
Crassula perforata: Known as the stacked Crassula, their leaves rotate around a central stem, giving them their common name, String of Buttons'.
2.Growing and Caring for Crassula
Crassula Growing Tips
Soil: Crassula plants need very well draining soil, but they are not particular about soil pH. Sandy or even rocky soil is fine.
Water: As succulents, they don't need frequent watering, since they store it in their leaves. If they are left to sit in wet soil, their roots will rot. During cooler months, give them a good drenching and then allow the soil to dry out, before watering again. They go dormant when the temperature gets hot in summer and need even less water.
Feeding: Feed sparingly. You can give your plants a little organic fertilizer in mid-spring, as they start actively growing.
Propagation: Crassula plants are generally started by division, offsets or leaf cuttings.
Caring for Your Crassula Plants
Crassula can be sensitive to temperature. Too hot and they will go dormant and drop their lower leaves. Too cold and they will simply pout, not doing much of anything. Other than that, they laugh off both neglect and abuse.
Stacking Crassulas send out suckers, which is really only a problem when grown in the ground. However they are slow growers and can be controlled with a little effort.
When plants start to get straggly or leggy, don't be afraid to cut them back.
Pests and Problems
Keep an eye out for the usual succulent pests: aphids, mealy bugs and spider mites. The biggest problem is root rot and sparse watering will help avoid that.
:Succulent plants offer low maintenance and diverse shapes and textures, both in the garden and indoors. Crassula is a diverse and extensive genus of succulent plants, with about 350 species. Probably the most well-known is Jade plant (Crassula ovata). Many of us know it as a houseplant, but in warm climates, it grows into a shrub.
Many other Crassula species are much smaller, including some miniatures and creeping ground covers. They are all quite fascinating, the types of plants you see occasionally and wonder "What is that?" With the resurgence of succulent container gardening, these smaller Crassula species are becoming more readily available and their easy growing habit makes them worth getting to know.
Botanical Name
Crassula spp.
Common Names
Because of the shapes and forms of their leaves, Crassula plants lend themselves to very descriptive common names. Crassula barklyi, the 'Rattlesnake Plant', looks like the tip of the snake's tail. Crassula argentea, shown here, is called ‘Living Coral’. Crassula perforata, with it's twirling leaves stacked one on top of another is known as 'String of Buttons'. This is an intriguing genus of plants.
Hardiness Zones
Most Crassula species are only reliably hardy in USDA Zones 9 - 10, but elsewhere you could bring them indoors for the winter. They won't get as large as plants grown outdoors, but they make great houseplants.
Sun Exposure
Full sun to partial shade. Most Crassula plants need some shade in the hottest part of summer, but require bright light to attain their most vibrant color. A site with morning sun and afternoon shade would be perfect.
Mature Plant Size
Size will vary with species and variety, from shrubs several feet tall to tiny specimens of a couple of inches.
Bloom Period
Spring and summer. Some varieties of Crassula have lovely flowers and others are insignificant. Many gardeners remove the flowers that are not particularly showy.
Design Tips for Crassula
The smaller Crassula are perfect container plants - low maintenance, evergreen and eye-catching. If you have the climate, the plants look terrific tucked into and hanging over walls.
Jade plants in their natural element will be one of the easiest to maintain plants in your garden. Their dark, glossy green color is a great foil for almost any flower color.
Suggested Crassula Varieties to Grow
There are so many to choose from, you may become a collector. Here are a few that might catch your eye.
Crassula "Morgan’s Beauty": Thick silver leaves dusted in white, with pretty pink late spring flowers. Grows about 8 inches wide.
Crassula erosula "Campfire'": Long branching leaves turn blazing red in winter. A clump former that grows about 1 ft. tall and spreads 3 ft. wide.
Crassula pellucida subsp. marginalis "Variegata": a flowing mass of heart-shaped leaves variegated in pink, green and creamy yellow. Nice in a hanging pot.
Crassula perforata: Known as the stacked Crassula, their leaves rotate around a central stem, giving them their common name, String of Buttons'.
2.Growing and Caring for Crassula
Crassula Growing Tips
Soil: Crassula plants need very well draining soil, but they are not particular about soil pH. Sandy or even rocky soil is fine.
Water: As succulents, they don't need frequent watering, since they store it in their leaves. If they are left to sit in wet soil, their roots will rot. During cooler months, give them a good drenching and then allow the soil to dry out, before watering again. They go dormant when the temperature gets hot in summer and need even less water.
Feeding: Feed sparingly. You can give your plants a little organic fertilizer in mid-spring, as they start actively growing.
Propagation: Crassula plants are generally started by division, offsets or leaf cuttings.
Caring for Your Crassula Plants
Crassula can be sensitive to temperature. Too hot and they will go dormant and drop their lower leaves. Too cold and they will simply pout, not doing much of anything. Other than that, they laugh off both neglect and abuse.
Stacking Crassulas send out suckers, which is really only a problem when grown in the ground. However they are slow growers and can be controlled with a little effort.
When plants start to get straggly or leggy, don't be afraid to cut them back.
Pests and Problems
Keep an eye out for the usual succulent pests: aphids, mealy bugs and spider mites. The biggest problem is root rot and sparse watering will help avoid that.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年06月26日
Description: This herbaceous perennial wildflower is 3-5' tall. The erect stems are unbranched, except in the upper-third of each plant. Each stem is light green, glabrous, 4-angled, and slightly winged on the angles. The opposite leaves are up to 4" long and 1½" across; they are lanceolate, lanceolate-ovate, or ovate, smooth along the their margins, and glabrous. The upper surface of each leaf is medium green, while the lower surface is pale green. The leaves are sessile or they clasp the stem slightly.
The central stem and lateral upper stems (if any) terminate in cymes of 1-5 flowers. Relative to the size of the flowers, branches of each cyme are rather short. Each flower is about 2" across, consisting of 5 yellow petals, 5 green sepals, numerous yellow stamens (about 100), and a light green pistil with 5 persistent styles. The petals are widely spreading and often rather floppy or contorted; they may develop streaks of white with age. The sepals are lanceolate-ovate and much shorter than the petals. The blooming period occurs during mid-summer and lasts about 2-3 weeks. Each flower is replaced by a large hairless seed capsule up to 1¼" long and ½" across. Each seed capsule is divided into 5 cells; each cell containsDistribution Map numerous small seeds that are narrowly oblongoid, flattened, and black at maturity. The root system is rhizomatous, often forming small colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade and moist conditions. This wildflower adapts to different kinds of soil, including loam, clay-loam, and rocky soil. It is robust and easy to grow.
Range & Habitat: The native Giant St. John's Wort is occasional in northern and west-central Illinois; it is rare or absent elsewhere in the state. Illinois lies along the southern range limit of this species in North America; it also occurs in Eurasia. Habitats are rather variable, but they include woodland openings, wooded slopes, banks of rivers and streams, moist thickets and meadows, river-bottom prairies, and fens. This species is usually found in high quality habitats. It is sometimes cultivated in gardens.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated primarily by bumblebees, which collect pollen. Smaller bees and other insects may visit the flowers as well, but they are less effective pollinators. Only pollen is available as a reward to floral visitors. Some insects feed on the leaves, flowers, and other parts of this and other Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These include the caterpillars of the moths Eupithecia miserulata (Common Pug), Melanchra assimilis (Black Arches), Synchlora aerata (Wavy-Lined Emerald), Hyppa xylinodes (Common Hyppa), Nedra ramosula (Gray Half-Spot), and Agonopterix hyperella (Oecophorid Moth sp.). The caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak) feed on the developing capsules and seeds. Other insects that feed on Hypericum spp. include the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the leaf beetles Pachybrachis relictus and Paria sellata. The foliage is somewhat toxic to mammalian herbivores and usually avoided because it can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. The foliage can also cause a harmful reaction to sunlight in light-skinned animals (e.g., pigs), causing irritation of the skin.
Photographic Location: A restored prairie at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This species has large attractive flowers and foliage. Unfortunately, the blooming period is relatively short. Giant St. John's Wort is easy to identify because of its large size and the presence of 5 styles on its flowers and seed capsules. Other large Hypericum spp. are usually woody, rather than herbaceous, and they usually have only 1-3 styles. An exception is the woody Hypericum kalmianum (Kalm's St. John's Wort), which also has 5 styles. This latter species has smaller flowers, more narrow leaves, and a shorter and more branched habit of growth than Giant St. John's Wort. Some taxonomists consider North American populations of Giant St. John's Wort to be distinct from the Eurasian populations, and refer to this species as Hypericum pyramidatum. Another common name of this species is Great St. John's Wort.
The central stem and lateral upper stems (if any) terminate in cymes of 1-5 flowers. Relative to the size of the flowers, branches of each cyme are rather short. Each flower is about 2" across, consisting of 5 yellow petals, 5 green sepals, numerous yellow stamens (about 100), and a light green pistil with 5 persistent styles. The petals are widely spreading and often rather floppy or contorted; they may develop streaks of white with age. The sepals are lanceolate-ovate and much shorter than the petals. The blooming period occurs during mid-summer and lasts about 2-3 weeks. Each flower is replaced by a large hairless seed capsule up to 1¼" long and ½" across. Each seed capsule is divided into 5 cells; each cell containsDistribution Map numerous small seeds that are narrowly oblongoid, flattened, and black at maturity. The root system is rhizomatous, often forming small colonies of plants.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade and moist conditions. This wildflower adapts to different kinds of soil, including loam, clay-loam, and rocky soil. It is robust and easy to grow.
Range & Habitat: The native Giant St. John's Wort is occasional in northern and west-central Illinois; it is rare or absent elsewhere in the state. Illinois lies along the southern range limit of this species in North America; it also occurs in Eurasia. Habitats are rather variable, but they include woodland openings, wooded slopes, banks of rivers and streams, moist thickets and meadows, river-bottom prairies, and fens. This species is usually found in high quality habitats. It is sometimes cultivated in gardens.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are pollinated primarily by bumblebees, which collect pollen. Smaller bees and other insects may visit the flowers as well, but they are less effective pollinators. Only pollen is available as a reward to floral visitors. Some insects feed on the leaves, flowers, and other parts of this and other Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These include the caterpillars of the moths Eupithecia miserulata (Common Pug), Melanchra assimilis (Black Arches), Synchlora aerata (Wavy-Lined Emerald), Hyppa xylinodes (Common Hyppa), Nedra ramosula (Gray Half-Spot), and Agonopterix hyperella (Oecophorid Moth sp.). The caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak) feed on the developing capsules and seeds. Other insects that feed on Hypericum spp. include the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the leaf beetles Pachybrachis relictus and Paria sellata. The foliage is somewhat toxic to mammalian herbivores and usually avoided because it can cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. The foliage can also cause a harmful reaction to sunlight in light-skinned animals (e.g., pigs), causing irritation of the skin.
Photographic Location: A restored prairie at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This species has large attractive flowers and foliage. Unfortunately, the blooming period is relatively short. Giant St. John's Wort is easy to identify because of its large size and the presence of 5 styles on its flowers and seed capsules. Other large Hypericum spp. are usually woody, rather than herbaceous, and they usually have only 1-3 styles. An exception is the woody Hypericum kalmianum (Kalm's St. John's Wort), which also has 5 styles. This latter species has smaller flowers, more narrow leaves, and a shorter and more branched habit of growth than Giant St. John's Wort. Some taxonomists consider North American populations of Giant St. John's Wort to be distinct from the Eurasian populations, and refer to this species as Hypericum pyramidatum. Another common name of this species is Great St. John's Wort.
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