成长记
ganderson7790
2018年03月21日
I now added "Mat Chang - Moon Valley Friendship Plant" in my "garden"
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月19日
Description: This perennial plant is 1-2' tall, with a stout smooth stem that is unbranched. The yellowish or olive green leaves are opposite and strongly clasp the central stem. However, the three leaves beneath the uppermost flowers are whorled. These leaves are broadly lanceolate, ovate, or cordate, and extend up to 3" long and 2" across. There is a prominent central vein, and two side veins that parallel the smooth margins. In the upper half of the plant, 2-7 flowers emerge from the axils of the leaves, with a greater number of flowers at the apex. The tube-shaped flowers are individually about 1½" long and ¾" across, and have 5 petals with small erect tips. They are white, greenish white, or yellowish white, depending on the local ecotype. The blooming period is late summer, and lasts about 1 or 1½ months. There is no noticeable fragrance to the flowers. The seed capsules split into 2 sections, releasing numerous small seeds that can be dispersed by wind or water. The root system consists of a long stout taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, and moist to average soil conditions. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, gravel, or sand. Starting plants from seed can be tricky, while transplants are much easier to manage. A yellowish appearance of the leaves is a common reaction to strong sunlight or dry weather, and does not necessarily signify disease or poor health.
Range & Habitat: The native Cream Gentian is a rare plant that occurs in scattered counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). It can be found in mesic black soil prairies, where it will occasionally form sizeable colonies. Other habitats include the edges of upland forests, sandy oak savannas, limestone glades, and rocky bluffs. Populations of this plant may have occurred in other habitats, such as sand or gravel prairies, but were destroyed before they could be identified.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, where they seek nectar. Some beetles, such as Epicauta pensylvanica (Black Blister Beetle), have been known to knaw on the flowers. White-tailed Deer occasionally chomp off the tops of Cream Gentian plants, but it is not preferred as a food source because of the bitter leaves (personal observation). The relationship of Cream Gentian to other mammalian herbivores is not known at the present time.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This gentian can be easily distinguished from the others by the absence of blue in the flower. The flowers are not as closed as the Bottle Gentians (e.g., Gentiana andrewsii), but less open than the Prairie Gentian (Gentiana puberulenta). Cream Gentian also blooms about 3 weeks earlier than other gentians. Because it blends into the background of a prairie quite well, this plant can be easy to overlook, even when it is in flower. Like many other gentians, Cream Gentian has an otherworldly beauty that is oddly attractive. Another scientific name for this plant is Gentiana flavida.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, and moist to average soil conditions. The soil can contain significant amounts of loam, clay, gravel, or sand. Starting plants from seed can be tricky, while transplants are much easier to manage. A yellowish appearance of the leaves is a common reaction to strong sunlight or dry weather, and does not necessarily signify disease or poor health.
Range & Habitat: The native Cream Gentian is a rare plant that occurs in scattered counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). It can be found in mesic black soil prairies, where it will occasionally form sizeable colonies. Other habitats include the edges of upland forests, sandy oak savannas, limestone glades, and rocky bluffs. Populations of this plant may have occurred in other habitats, such as sand or gravel prairies, but were destroyed before they could be identified.
Faunal Associations: Bumblebees are the primary pollinators of the flowers, where they seek nectar. Some beetles, such as Epicauta pensylvanica (Black Blister Beetle), have been known to knaw on the flowers. White-tailed Deer occasionally chomp off the tops of Cream Gentian plants, but it is not preferred as a food source because of the bitter leaves (personal observation). The relationship of Cream Gentian to other mammalian herbivores is not known at the present time.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This gentian can be easily distinguished from the others by the absence of blue in the flower. The flowers are not as closed as the Bottle Gentians (e.g., Gentiana andrewsii), but less open than the Prairie Gentian (Gentiana puberulenta). Cream Gentian also blooms about 3 weeks earlier than other gentians. Because it blends into the background of a prairie quite well, this plant can be easy to overlook, even when it is in flower. Like many other gentians, Cream Gentian has an otherworldly beauty that is oddly attractive. Another scientific name for this plant is Gentiana flavida.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月19日
Description: This herbaceous plant is a monocarpic perennial. It persists as a rosette of 3-30 basal leaves for 5-15 years (or more), finally bolting as a flowering plant that becomes 3-8' tall for a single season, and then dying. The basal leaves are up to 14" long and 4" across; they are oblong-elliptic to broadly oblong-elliptic in shape and smooth along their margins. The upper surfaces of the basal leaves are medium green and glabrous with prominent central veins; they are deciduous. The central stem of a flowering plant is light green to purple, glabrous, terete (circular in cross-section), rather stout, and unbranched. Along its entire length, there are whorls of 4-5 leaves (rarely more) that become gradually smaller in size as they ascend the central stem. Individual whorled leaves are 3-12" long and ¾-3" across; they are oblong-elliptic, oblong-lanceolate, or oblong-oblanceolate in shape with smooth margins. The upper surfaces of these leaves are dark green and glabrous with prominent central veins; they are also deciduous. The central stem terminates in a panicle of flowers up to 2' long (typically 50-100 flowers per panicle). This panicle is narrowly pyramidal in shape with spreading to ascending lateral branches. The terminal branches produce clusters of 2-6 flowers each on pedicels ¾-2" long.
Each flower is ¾-1¼" across, consisting of a shallow corolla with 4-5 spreading petaloid lobes, a shallow calyx with 4-5 spreading lobes, 4-5 stamens, and a superior ovary with a single style. Usually, the flowers are divided into 4 parts, rather than 5. The corolla lobes are oblong-lanceolate or oblong-elliptic in shape; they are mostly greenish white with purple specks or streaks, although their bases may be tinted pale yellow or pale pink. Toward the middle of each corolla lobe, there is a conspicuous nectar pad that is heavily fringed. The bases of these nectar pads are surrounded by rings of green. The calyx and its lobes are medium green and glabrous; individual lobes are linear-lanceolate and up to ½" long. The superior ovary is light green. The peduncle, lateral branches, and pedicels of the inflorescence are light green to purple, glabrous, and terete. At locations where there are divergent branches within the inflorescence, there are pairs of leafy bracts about 1-3" long that are linear-lanceolate or linear-oblong in shape. The blooming period occurs from late spring to early summer, lasting about 3 weeks. The flowers within a panicle bloom at about the same time. Individual plants in a colony have a tendency to bloom synchronically (during the same year at the same time), which facilitates cross-pollination of the flowers. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by ovoid seed capsules about ½-¾" in length; these capsules are strongly beaked from the persistent styles. At maturity, these capsules become dark brown and split open to release their seeds. Each capsule contains 4-14 dark brown seeds that are crescent-shaped and winged. The root system consists of a fleshy taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, mesic to dry-mesic conditions, and calcareous soil that is loamy, rocky, or sandy. The seeds require a dormant period with cool moist stratification in order to germinate. Because this plant persists as a rosette of basal leaves for several years, it is slow to develop, and its seeds are not often available commercially. Problems with disease organisms or insect pests rarely occur.
Range & Habitat: The native American Columbo is occasional in the southern half of Illinois, rare (or possibly extirpated) in NE Illinois, and absent from the rest of the state (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the NW range limit of this species. Habitats include upland savannas, upland woodlands, wooded slopes, limestone and sandstone glades, woodland openings, and small meadows in upland wooded areas. In areas near southern Lake Michigan, this plant occurs in similar habitats with calcareous sand. American Columbo is often associated with upland oak trees and such ferns as Asplenium platyneuron (Ebony Spleenwort) and Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern). It is found in higher quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by such long-tongued bees as honeybees, bumblebees, and Anthophorine bees (Anthophora spp.); these insects obtain mostly nectar from the flowers. Aside from these pollinators, there are few records of floral-faunal relationships for American Columbo. The basal leaves of more western species in the same genus, sometimes referred to as 'Elkweed,' are eaten occasionally by elk and other hoofed mammalian herbivores. However, evidence of such browsing hasn't been observed by the author for the more eastern American Columbo.
Photographic Location: A rocky wooded slope in southern Illinois and an upland woodland in east-central Illinois.
Comments: American Columbo is an unusual native plant that has a tall striking appearance when it finally bolts and blooms. The greenish white flowers with purplish specks or streaks have an odd appearance; they are produced in great abundance during the blooming period. Even though the flowers of American Columbo have conspicuous nectar pads like some species in the Lily family (Liliaceae), such as Melanthium virginicum (Virginia Bunchflower) and Veratrum woodii (False Hellebore), it is not closely related to these latter species (the former species is a dicot, while the latter are monocots). The Frasera genus is a small group of plants that are found primarily in western North America. American Columbo is the only eastern species, making flowering plants easy to identity. Immature plants consisting of basal leaves, however, can be confused with the immature stage of False Hellebore. An obsolete scientific name for American Columbo is Swertia caroliniensis.
Each flower is ¾-1¼" across, consisting of a shallow corolla with 4-5 spreading petaloid lobes, a shallow calyx with 4-5 spreading lobes, 4-5 stamens, and a superior ovary with a single style. Usually, the flowers are divided into 4 parts, rather than 5. The corolla lobes are oblong-lanceolate or oblong-elliptic in shape; they are mostly greenish white with purple specks or streaks, although their bases may be tinted pale yellow or pale pink. Toward the middle of each corolla lobe, there is a conspicuous nectar pad that is heavily fringed. The bases of these nectar pads are surrounded by rings of green. The calyx and its lobes are medium green and glabrous; individual lobes are linear-lanceolate and up to ½" long. The superior ovary is light green. The peduncle, lateral branches, and pedicels of the inflorescence are light green to purple, glabrous, and terete. At locations where there are divergent branches within the inflorescence, there are pairs of leafy bracts about 1-3" long that are linear-lanceolate or linear-oblong in shape. The blooming period occurs from late spring to early summer, lasting about 3 weeks. The flowers within a panicle bloom at about the same time. Individual plants in a colony have a tendency to bloom synchronically (during the same year at the same time), which facilitates cross-pollination of the flowers. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by ovoid seed capsules about ½-¾" in length; these capsules are strongly beaked from the persistent styles. At maturity, these capsules become dark brown and split open to release their seeds. Each capsule contains 4-14 dark brown seeds that are crescent-shaped and winged. The root system consists of a fleshy taproot.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, mesic to dry-mesic conditions, and calcareous soil that is loamy, rocky, or sandy. The seeds require a dormant period with cool moist stratification in order to germinate. Because this plant persists as a rosette of basal leaves for several years, it is slow to develop, and its seeds are not often available commercially. Problems with disease organisms or insect pests rarely occur.
Range & Habitat: The native American Columbo is occasional in the southern half of Illinois, rare (or possibly extirpated) in NE Illinois, and absent from the rest of the state (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the NW range limit of this species. Habitats include upland savannas, upland woodlands, wooded slopes, limestone and sandstone glades, woodland openings, and small meadows in upland wooded areas. In areas near southern Lake Michigan, this plant occurs in similar habitats with calcareous sand. American Columbo is often associated with upland oak trees and such ferns as Asplenium platyneuron (Ebony Spleenwort) and Polystichum acrostichoides (Christmas Fern). It is found in higher quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by such long-tongued bees as honeybees, bumblebees, and Anthophorine bees (Anthophora spp.); these insects obtain mostly nectar from the flowers. Aside from these pollinators, there are few records of floral-faunal relationships for American Columbo. The basal leaves of more western species in the same genus, sometimes referred to as 'Elkweed,' are eaten occasionally by elk and other hoofed mammalian herbivores. However, evidence of such browsing hasn't been observed by the author for the more eastern American Columbo.
Photographic Location: A rocky wooded slope in southern Illinois and an upland woodland in east-central Illinois.
Comments: American Columbo is an unusual native plant that has a tall striking appearance when it finally bolts and blooms. The greenish white flowers with purplish specks or streaks have an odd appearance; they are produced in great abundance during the blooming period. Even though the flowers of American Columbo have conspicuous nectar pads like some species in the Lily family (Liliaceae), such as Melanthium virginicum (Virginia Bunchflower) and Veratrum woodii (False Hellebore), it is not closely related to these latter species (the former species is a dicot, while the latter are monocots). The Frasera genus is a small group of plants that are found primarily in western North America. American Columbo is the only eastern species, making flowering plants easy to identity. Immature plants consisting of basal leaves, however, can be confused with the immature stage of False Hellebore. An obsolete scientific name for American Columbo is Swertia caroliniensis.
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求助
Briza Saboya E Andrade
2018年03月19日
What is the name of this plant?
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佳：Coleus scutellarioides (L.) Benth
sunnyzou：Plectranthus scutellarioides
文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月18日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is a twining vine up to 20' long that can climb adjacent vegetation and fences, otherwise it sprawls across the ground. The slender stems are light green to bright red and round, angular, or slightly ridged. They are largely hairless, except for minute stiff hairs along the ridges. At the base of the petioles, the stems are slightly swollen and have short ocreae (membranous sheaths) that are without bristles. The alternate leaves are up to 4" long and 2" across (excluding the petioles). They are cordate or ovate, smooth along the margins, hairless, and indented at the base. Their slender petioles are up to 1½" long and similar in appearance to the stems. The lower leaves have long petioles, while the smaller upper leaves are nearly sessile. From the axils of the leaves, there develops one or more racemes of flowers about 2-8" long. These racemes are usually more or less erect (although sometimes horizontal) and their central stalks are often terete with numerous fine ridges. The greenish white flowers occur in loose whorls along these racemes. They are initially semi-erect while in bloom, but dangle downward from their slender pedicels while developing their fruits. Each flower is about 1/6" (4 mm.) long, consisting of 5 greenish white tepals, 8 stamens, and an ovary with a tripartite style. The 3 outer tepals are conspicuously winged. The wings of these tepals can be smooth, undulate, or slightly jagged. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 1-2 months. Each flower is replaced by a winged fruit about 1/3" (8 mm.) long that consists of the 3 outer tepals enclosing a single achene. This fruit is initially greenish white like the flower, but it eventually becomes brown. The 3-angled achenes are about 1/8" (3 mm.) in length (or slightly longer). They are dark brown or black and shiny. The mature fruits can float on water or be blown about by the wind, thereby distributing the achenes. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself and can form sizable colonies at favorable sites.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil, although full sun, drier conditions, and rocky or gravelly soil are also tolerated. This vine develops rapidly during the summer and can smother small shrubs. It is quite aggressive.
Range & Habitat: The native Climbing Buckwheat is a common plant that occurs in every county of Illinois (see Distribution Map; the distribution of each variety for this species has been combined). Habitats include open woodlands in floodplain areas, woodland borders, thickets, riverbanks, ditches, sloping ground along bridges, and fence rows. This species is often found in moist areas along the edges of woodlands or near sources of water. It is thrives on disturbance and is rather weedy, although regular mowing and cultivation of the soil isn't tolerated because of its perennial habit.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers primarily attracts short-tongued bees, wasps, and flies. Some of the bees may also collect pollen. Less common visitors include butterflies, skippers, and beetles. The caterpillars of the moth Timandra amaturaria (Cross-Lined Wave) feed on Fallopia spp. (Climbing Buckwheats), as does the aphid, Macrosiphum venaefuscae. It seems likely that many of the insects that feed on Persicaria spp. (Smartweeds) and Polygonum spp. (Knotweeds) also feed on Climbing Buckwheats. The large seeds are an important source of food to many birds, especially upland gamebirds (see Bird Table). The White-Footed Mouse and other small mammals also eat the seeds. The foliage isn't usually eaten by mammalian herbivores, although cattle and other livestock may browse on it. The dense foliage provides cover for small mammals and nesting bird.
Photographic Location: Along a bridge in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a luxuriant vine that can smother everything in its path. However, the flowers and fruits are produced in abundance and are rather showy. There is a lack of consensus regarding the taxonomy of this variable species. Some botanists (the 'splitters') divide Fallopia scandens (Climbing Buckwheat) into 2 or 3 species, while others (the 'lumpers') recognize only a single species with different varieties. Similar to Yatskievych (2000), I prefer the taxonomy of the latter and regard Fallopia cristata (Crested Climbing Buckwheat) as a variety of Climbing Buckwheat, or Fallopia scandens cristata, as specimen plants tend to intergrade. However, according to Mohlenbrock (2002), Climbing Buckwheat has winged fruits that exceed 10 mm. in length, while the winged fruits of Crested Buckwheat are shorter. An older scientific name of Climbing Buckwheat is Polygonum scandens, while Crested Climbing Buckwheat has been referred to as Polygonum cristatum and Polygonum scandens cristatum. Another species in this genus, Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed), is an adventive annual vine from Europe that is up to 6' long. The flowers and fruits of Black Bindweed are keeled, rather than conspicuously winged, and the sides of its 3-angled achenes are dull, rather than shiny.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil, although full sun, drier conditions, and rocky or gravelly soil are also tolerated. This vine develops rapidly during the summer and can smother small shrubs. It is quite aggressive.
Range & Habitat: The native Climbing Buckwheat is a common plant that occurs in every county of Illinois (see Distribution Map; the distribution of each variety for this species has been combined). Habitats include open woodlands in floodplain areas, woodland borders, thickets, riverbanks, ditches, sloping ground along bridges, and fence rows. This species is often found in moist areas along the edges of woodlands or near sources of water. It is thrives on disturbance and is rather weedy, although regular mowing and cultivation of the soil isn't tolerated because of its perennial habit.
Faunal Associations: The nectar of the flowers primarily attracts short-tongued bees, wasps, and flies. Some of the bees may also collect pollen. Less common visitors include butterflies, skippers, and beetles. The caterpillars of the moth Timandra amaturaria (Cross-Lined Wave) feed on Fallopia spp. (Climbing Buckwheats), as does the aphid, Macrosiphum venaefuscae. It seems likely that many of the insects that feed on Persicaria spp. (Smartweeds) and Polygonum spp. (Knotweeds) also feed on Climbing Buckwheats. The large seeds are an important source of food to many birds, especially upland gamebirds (see Bird Table). The White-Footed Mouse and other small mammals also eat the seeds. The foliage isn't usually eaten by mammalian herbivores, although cattle and other livestock may browse on it. The dense foliage provides cover for small mammals and nesting bird.
Photographic Location: Along a bridge in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a luxuriant vine that can smother everything in its path. However, the flowers and fruits are produced in abundance and are rather showy. There is a lack of consensus regarding the taxonomy of this variable species. Some botanists (the 'splitters') divide Fallopia scandens (Climbing Buckwheat) into 2 or 3 species, while others (the 'lumpers') recognize only a single species with different varieties. Similar to Yatskievych (2000), I prefer the taxonomy of the latter and regard Fallopia cristata (Crested Climbing Buckwheat) as a variety of Climbing Buckwheat, or Fallopia scandens cristata, as specimen plants tend to intergrade. However, according to Mohlenbrock (2002), Climbing Buckwheat has winged fruits that exceed 10 mm. in length, while the winged fruits of Crested Buckwheat are shorter. An older scientific name of Climbing Buckwheat is Polygonum scandens, while Crested Climbing Buckwheat has been referred to as Polygonum cristatum and Polygonum scandens cristatum. Another species in this genus, Fallopia convolvulus (Black Bindweed), is an adventive annual vine from Europe that is up to 6' long. The flowers and fruits of Black Bindweed are keeled, rather than conspicuously winged, and the sides of its 3-angled achenes are dull, rather than shiny.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月18日
Description: This perennial plant is 3-7' tall and usually unbranched. The central stem is light green and glabrous, except where the whorls of leaves of occur, where it is slightly swollen and purple. There are 3-4 leaves in each whorl along the stem. The leaves are about 6" long and 3½" across, or sometimes larger; they are broadly lanceolate or ovate and crenate-serrated along the margins. Each leaf is dull green and hairless on the upper surface; the lower surface is pale green and hairless to finely pubescent. The foliage may be vanilla-scented, although this varies with the local ecotype.
The central stem terminates in one or more panicles of compound flowers that are bunched together; this inflorescence is usually more dome-shaped than flat-topped. Unlike the central stem, the stalks of the inflorescence are sometimes finely pubescent. Each compound flower consists of 5-8 disk florets and several overlapping series of bracts at its base. There are no ray florets. The corolla of each disk floret is whitish pink to purplish pink; it is tubular in shape and has 5 tiny teeth along its upper rim. A divided white style is strongly exerted from each disk floret. The floral bracts are pale pink and oblong. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about a month. Each floret is replaced by a bullet-shaped achene with a small tuft of hair. These achenes are dispersed by the wind. The root system is shallow and fibrous.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a rich loamy soil. The leaves will turn an unattractive yellowish green in the presence of strong sunlight.
Range & Habitat: The native Sweet Joe-Pye Weed occurs occasionally in most areas of Illinois, except for a few counties in SE Illinois and elsewhere in the state, where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include open woodlands, savannas, woodland borders, thickets, partially shaded seeps, and partially shaded riverbanks. This plant can survive in wooded areas that are somewhat degraded. However, populations have a tendency to decline when the shade of overhead canopy trees becomes too dense.
Faunal Associations: The flower nectar attracts primarily long-tongued bees, butterflies, skippers, and moths. Bee visitors include Bombus spp. (bumblebees), Melissodes spp. (miner bees), and Megachile spp. (leaf-cutting bees). Some bees also collect pollen. The caterpillars of various moths feed on leaves and other parts of Eutrochium spp. (Joe-Pye Weed species), including Carmenta bassiformis (Eupatorium Borer Moth), Emmelina monodactyla (Common Plume Moth), Perigea xanthioides (Red Groundling), Schinia trifasciata (Three-Lined Flower Moth), Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth), and Eupithecia miserulata (Common Pug).
Other insect feeders include larvae of the leaf-mining flies Liriomyza pusilla and Phytobia allecta, larvae of Dasineura purpurea (Joe-Pye Blossum Midge), the warty leaf beetle Exema dispar, the aphid Uroleucon eupatoricolens, and the treehopper Entylia bactriana. White-Tailed Deer browse on the leaves of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed sparingly (personal observation), while the Swamp Sparrow eats the seeds of various Joe-Pye Weed species to a limited extent.
Photographic Location: A small opening in a wooded area at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Sweet Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) is one of the taller wildflowers in wooded areas. It is often found in habitats that are more shady and dry than other Eutrochium spp. (Joe-Pye Weed species) in the state. To identify a Joe-Pye Weed, it is helpful to examine the central stem: the stem of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed is solid in cross-section and purple where the bases of leaf petioles occur, otherwise it is green and glabrous. The species Eutrochium maculatum (Spotted Joe-Pye Weed) has solid stems that are either purple-spotted and glabrous or solid purple throughout from dark-colored hairs, while Eutrochium fistulosum (Hollow-stemmed Joe-Pye Weed) has hollow stems that are glabrous and glaucous. Sweet Joe-Pye Weed usually has only 3-4 leaves per whorl, while Spotted Joe-Pye Weed has 4-5 leaves per whorl and Hollow-Stemmed Joe-Pye Weed has 4-7 leaves per whorl. Joe-Pye Weed species have been assigned recently to the Eutrochium genus; in the past, they have been assigned to the Eupatorium genus and the Eupatoriadelphus genus. Thus, Eupatorium purpureum and Eupatoriadelphus purpureus are scientific synonyms of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed.
The central stem terminates in one or more panicles of compound flowers that are bunched together; this inflorescence is usually more dome-shaped than flat-topped. Unlike the central stem, the stalks of the inflorescence are sometimes finely pubescent. Each compound flower consists of 5-8 disk florets and several overlapping series of bracts at its base. There are no ray florets. The corolla of each disk floret is whitish pink to purplish pink; it is tubular in shape and has 5 tiny teeth along its upper rim. A divided white style is strongly exerted from each disk floret. The floral bracts are pale pink and oblong. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about a month. Each floret is replaced by a bullet-shaped achene with a small tuft of hair. These achenes are dispersed by the wind. The root system is shallow and fibrous.
Cultivation: The preference is light shade to partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a rich loamy soil. The leaves will turn an unattractive yellowish green in the presence of strong sunlight.
Range & Habitat: The native Sweet Joe-Pye Weed occurs occasionally in most areas of Illinois, except for a few counties in SE Illinois and elsewhere in the state, where it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include open woodlands, savannas, woodland borders, thickets, partially shaded seeps, and partially shaded riverbanks. This plant can survive in wooded areas that are somewhat degraded. However, populations have a tendency to decline when the shade of overhead canopy trees becomes too dense.
Faunal Associations: The flower nectar attracts primarily long-tongued bees, butterflies, skippers, and moths. Bee visitors include Bombus spp. (bumblebees), Melissodes spp. (miner bees), and Megachile spp. (leaf-cutting bees). Some bees also collect pollen. The caterpillars of various moths feed on leaves and other parts of Eutrochium spp. (Joe-Pye Weed species), including Carmenta bassiformis (Eupatorium Borer Moth), Emmelina monodactyla (Common Plume Moth), Perigea xanthioides (Red Groundling), Schinia trifasciata (Three-Lined Flower Moth), Phragmatobia fuliginosa (Ruby Tiger Moth), and Eupithecia miserulata (Common Pug).
Other insect feeders include larvae of the leaf-mining flies Liriomyza pusilla and Phytobia allecta, larvae of Dasineura purpurea (Joe-Pye Blossum Midge), the warty leaf beetle Exema dispar, the aphid Uroleucon eupatoricolens, and the treehopper Entylia bactriana. White-Tailed Deer browse on the leaves of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed sparingly (personal observation), while the Swamp Sparrow eats the seeds of various Joe-Pye Weed species to a limited extent.
Photographic Location: A small opening in a wooded area at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Sweet Joe-Pye Weed (Eutrochium purpureum) is one of the taller wildflowers in wooded areas. It is often found in habitats that are more shady and dry than other Eutrochium spp. (Joe-Pye Weed species) in the state. To identify a Joe-Pye Weed, it is helpful to examine the central stem: the stem of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed is solid in cross-section and purple where the bases of leaf petioles occur, otherwise it is green and glabrous. The species Eutrochium maculatum (Spotted Joe-Pye Weed) has solid stems that are either purple-spotted and glabrous or solid purple throughout from dark-colored hairs, while Eutrochium fistulosum (Hollow-stemmed Joe-Pye Weed) has hollow stems that are glabrous and glaucous. Sweet Joe-Pye Weed usually has only 3-4 leaves per whorl, while Spotted Joe-Pye Weed has 4-5 leaves per whorl and Hollow-Stemmed Joe-Pye Weed has 4-7 leaves per whorl. Joe-Pye Weed species have been assigned recently to the Eutrochium genus; in the past, they have been assigned to the Eupatorium genus and the Eupatoriadelphus genus. Thus, Eupatorium purpureum and Eupatoriadelphus purpureus are scientific synonyms of Sweet Joe-Pye Weed.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月18日
Description: This perennial plant is about 2½–5' tall, branching occasionally and more or less erect. The stems are variably hairy, sometimes having hairs that occur in lines along their length. These hairs are white and either straight or somewhat curved, but not conspicuously hooked. The compound leaves alternate along the stems; they are trifoliate. The petioles of the compound leaves are about ½–1½" in length. At the base of each petiole is a pair of inconspicuous stipules that are deciduous and at least 5 times longer than they are wide. The leaflets are about 1½–3½" long and about half as much across. They are ovate-lanceolate or ovate and have smooth margins. The base of each leaflet is quite rounded. The upper surface of each leaflet is green or dark green, and nearly glabrous or finely pubescent. The lower surface is light green and faintly reticulate. There are usually fine hairs on the lower leaf surface, especially along the major veins, but the amount is variable.
The upper stems terminate in panicles of light pink to purplish pink flowers. The larger panicles can be 1-2' long and have spreading stems that produce numerous flowers. Each flower is about ¼" long. These flowers have a typical structure for members of the Bean family, consisting of a hood and projecting keel. Near the center of each flower is a patch of white that is surrounded by a thin line of purple. The blooming period can occur from mid-summer to early fall, and lasts about a month. There is no floral scent. Each fertilized flower is replaced by a flat loment (a type of seedpod) consisting of 2-5 rounded segments. These loments are about ¾–1½" long and covered with clinging hairs. The root system consists of a taproot and nodule-forming secondary roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun and mesic to slightly dry conditions. This plant usually grows in soil that contains loam, clay-loam, or some kind of rocky material. It does not appear to be affected by powdery mildew to the same extent as Desmodium canadense (Showy Tick Trefoil). Nitrogen is added to the soil through the root nodules.
Range & Habitat: Perplexing Tick Trefoil occurs occasionally in the majority of counties in Illinois; this native plant is a little more common in the southern half of the state than in the northern half (see Distribution Map). The map doesn't distinguish between the distribution of Desmodium perplexum and Desmodium glabellum. Habitats include savannas, rocky upland forests, edges of wooded areas, thickets, and limestone glades.
Faunal Associations: Like other Desmodium spp., long-tongued bees are the primary pollinators of the flowers. Typical visitors include bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). These insects collect pollen. The caterpillars of the skippers, Thorybes pylades (Northern Cloudywing) and Thorybes bathyllus (Southern Cloudywing), feed on the foliage. The seeds are eaten by some upland gamebirds and small rodents, including the Bobwhite, Wild Turkey, and White-footed Mouse. Mammalian herbivores eat Tick Trefoils readily, including deer, rabbits, groundhogs, and livestock. These mammals help to distribute the seeds as the loments readily cling to their fur. The loments also cling to the clothing of humans.
Photographic Location: The edge of a wooded area in Judge Webber Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This Tick Trefoil species can produce large panicles of small flowers that are rather showy. It is one of the Desmodium spp. that blooms later in the year than many others. Unfortunately, it has been re-classified by taxonomists on several occasions, which may be the reason for the 'perplexum' in its scientific name. In some older sources of information, this plant is referred to as Desmodium dillenii and Desmodium glabellum. However, Desmodium glabellum is now considered a separate species with an appearance that is quite similar to Perplexing Tick Trefoil, while Desmodium dillenii is considered a defunct classification. Presumably, Desmodium perplexum and Desmodium glabellum can be distinguished as follows: 1) the former species has a faint reticulated network of veins on the lower surface of the leaflets, while the latter has a strong reticulated network of veins, and 2) the former species has hairs on the stems and leaves that are straight or somewhat curved, while the latter has hooked hairs. Other distinguishing features for Perplexing Tick Trefoil include inconspicuous stipules that are very narrow and deciduous (i.e., they wither away quickly), and petioles of the compound leaves that are at least ½" in length.
The upper stems terminate in panicles of light pink to purplish pink flowers. The larger panicles can be 1-2' long and have spreading stems that produce numerous flowers. Each flower is about ¼" long. These flowers have a typical structure for members of the Bean family, consisting of a hood and projecting keel. Near the center of each flower is a patch of white that is surrounded by a thin line of purple. The blooming period can occur from mid-summer to early fall, and lasts about a month. There is no floral scent. Each fertilized flower is replaced by a flat loment (a type of seedpod) consisting of 2-5 rounded segments. These loments are about ¾–1½" long and covered with clinging hairs. The root system consists of a taproot and nodule-forming secondary roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun and mesic to slightly dry conditions. This plant usually grows in soil that contains loam, clay-loam, or some kind of rocky material. It does not appear to be affected by powdery mildew to the same extent as Desmodium canadense (Showy Tick Trefoil). Nitrogen is added to the soil through the root nodules.
Range & Habitat: Perplexing Tick Trefoil occurs occasionally in the majority of counties in Illinois; this native plant is a little more common in the southern half of the state than in the northern half (see Distribution Map). The map doesn't distinguish between the distribution of Desmodium perplexum and Desmodium glabellum. Habitats include savannas, rocky upland forests, edges of wooded areas, thickets, and limestone glades.
Faunal Associations: Like other Desmodium spp., long-tongued bees are the primary pollinators of the flowers. Typical visitors include bumblebees, long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.). These insects collect pollen. The caterpillars of the skippers, Thorybes pylades (Northern Cloudywing) and Thorybes bathyllus (Southern Cloudywing), feed on the foliage. The seeds are eaten by some upland gamebirds and small rodents, including the Bobwhite, Wild Turkey, and White-footed Mouse. Mammalian herbivores eat Tick Trefoils readily, including deer, rabbits, groundhogs, and livestock. These mammals help to distribute the seeds as the loments readily cling to their fur. The loments also cling to the clothing of humans.
Photographic Location: The edge of a wooded area in Judge Webber Park, Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This Tick Trefoil species can produce large panicles of small flowers that are rather showy. It is one of the Desmodium spp. that blooms later in the year than many others. Unfortunately, it has been re-classified by taxonomists on several occasions, which may be the reason for the 'perplexum' in its scientific name. In some older sources of information, this plant is referred to as Desmodium dillenii and Desmodium glabellum. However, Desmodium glabellum is now considered a separate species with an appearance that is quite similar to Perplexing Tick Trefoil, while Desmodium dillenii is considered a defunct classification. Presumably, Desmodium perplexum and Desmodium glabellum can be distinguished as follows: 1) the former species has a faint reticulated network of veins on the lower surface of the leaflets, while the latter has a strong reticulated network of veins, and 2) the former species has hairs on the stems and leaves that are straight or somewhat curved, while the latter has hooked hairs. Other distinguishing features for Perplexing Tick Trefoil include inconspicuous stipules that are very narrow and deciduous (i.e., they wither away quickly), and petioles of the compound leaves that are at least ½" in length.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年03月16日
Fruit and vegetable gardens burst into bloom in spring and summer for eventual fruit harvest, but rarely consist of one specific plant variety. Gardeners plant a range of their favorite fruits and vegetables for wide, satisfying harvests. Warm-season plants like tomatoes and melons thrive together with the same temperature, sun, nutrition and water needs, but they require generous spacing for growth. Plant these crops at the same time, and with the same considerations.
Step 1
Start tomatoes, watermelons and cantaloupes in mid-spring when the frost lifts. All three crops need starts at 60 degrees to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and die in frost. Start seedlings to give these long-season plants head starts on their growing seasons.
Step 2
Designate planting sites. Tomatoes and melons require adequate spacing for growth and fruit production. Choose sites with bright all-day sun and air circulation, and allot at least 5 to 6 square feet for each crop. Put the tomato plot on the southern or northern side of the garden to avoid shading out the lower-lying crops.
Step 3
Amend the soil through all three plots to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Dig 3 to 4 inches of organic compost into the topsoil to increase nutrition, drainage and moisture retention. Tomatoes, watermelons and cantaloupes are hungry, thirsty plants, and do best with rich, crumbly soil. Turn 6-24-24 or 8-32-16 fertilizer into the top 4 inches of soil throughout to encourage quick root establishment.
Step 4
Plant tomato seedlings 24 to 36 inches apart in a row. Space rows at 4 feet, and give each plant a vegetable cage for support. Plant watermelon seedlings at every 2 feet in the row, and cantaloupe seedlings at 18 to 24 inches in the row. Plant only one row of each variety of melon to minimize space usage. Each plant produces several melons.
Step 5
Give the garden 3 inches of water to settle the soil, and put the plants on a schedule of 2 inches of water every week. The plants cannot produce growth or fruit without adequate moisture. Lay 2 inches of mulch over the soil between the plantings to maintain moisture and warmth for the plants.
Step 6
Feed the plants with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at mid-season to encourage best blooming and fruit production.
Step 1
Start tomatoes, watermelons and cantaloupes in mid-spring when the frost lifts. All three crops need starts at 60 degrees to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, and die in frost. Start seedlings to give these long-season plants head starts on their growing seasons.
Step 2
Designate planting sites. Tomatoes and melons require adequate spacing for growth and fruit production. Choose sites with bright all-day sun and air circulation, and allot at least 5 to 6 square feet for each crop. Put the tomato plot on the southern or northern side of the garden to avoid shading out the lower-lying crops.
Step 3
Amend the soil through all three plots to a depth of 6 to 8 inches. Dig 3 to 4 inches of organic compost into the topsoil to increase nutrition, drainage and moisture retention. Tomatoes, watermelons and cantaloupes are hungry, thirsty plants, and do best with rich, crumbly soil. Turn 6-24-24 or 8-32-16 fertilizer into the top 4 inches of soil throughout to encourage quick root establishment.
Step 4
Plant tomato seedlings 24 to 36 inches apart in a row. Space rows at 4 feet, and give each plant a vegetable cage for support. Plant watermelon seedlings at every 2 feet in the row, and cantaloupe seedlings at 18 to 24 inches in the row. Plant only one row of each variety of melon to minimize space usage. Each plant produces several melons.
Step 5
Give the garden 3 inches of water to settle the soil, and put the plants on a schedule of 2 inches of water every week. The plants cannot produce growth or fruit without adequate moisture. Lay 2 inches of mulch over the soil between the plantings to maintain moisture and warmth for the plants.
Step 6
Feed the plants with a balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer at mid-season to encourage best blooming and fruit production.
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Miss Chen
2018年03月16日
The pear-shaped, light-green fruits known in the U.S. as vegetable pears and in Mexico as chayotes grow on vigorous cold-sensitive vines of the cucurbit family -- the same plant family that includes pumpkins, squash, melons and cucumbers. Known to ancient Aztecs as chayotli and to botanists as Sechium edule, chayote vines need a 150-day growing season between hard frosts, a circumstance hard to come by in the U.S. except for Southern locales. Where frost doesn't destroy the roots, an established chayote plant will resprout the following spring and again produce an immense quantity of fruit.
Step 1
Purchase several fresh chayote fruits in fall, even if they have been in cold storage and are wrapped in plastic. Unwrap them once you get home if they were encased in plastic.
Step 2
Store whole chayotes in a cool, dark place such as a garage or back porch cupboard. The almond-sized chayote seeds inside the fruits will sprout, emerge and lengthen in the dark. By February, the seedling will be about 6 inches long.
Step 3
Fill the 5-gallon container to within several inches of the top with thoroughly moistened potting soil. Scoop out a chayote-sized area in the center and plant the entire sprouted fruit, the tip barely showing.
Step 4
Water the chayote pot thoroughly and place it in a sunny window until temperatures outside are warm. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Step 5
Place the pot outdoors when temperatures are warm, adjacent to the fence or trellis that will provide support. Water regularly, thoroughly saturating the soil. You may water once or twice daily during hot weather, because roots are limited to moisture available to them in the container.
Step 6
Mulch the chayote soil with several inches of mulch to conserve moisture. Tend the vine all summer; it will grow to 30 feet or more before blossoming or setting fruit. Vines will bloom in August or September and be covered with chayotes by September or October.
Step 7
Harvest fruits when pickle size, sliced-cucumber size or 1-pound-pear size. Vines will die back after the first frost, but fruits won't be damaged until the first hard frost. Protect the dormant roots by storing the pot in a cool -- not frosty -- garage or basement until spring. Water the pot lightly every month or so.
Step 1
Purchase several fresh chayote fruits in fall, even if they have been in cold storage and are wrapped in plastic. Unwrap them once you get home if they were encased in plastic.
Step 2
Store whole chayotes in a cool, dark place such as a garage or back porch cupboard. The almond-sized chayote seeds inside the fruits will sprout, emerge and lengthen in the dark. By February, the seedling will be about 6 inches long.
Step 3
Fill the 5-gallon container to within several inches of the top with thoroughly moistened potting soil. Scoop out a chayote-sized area in the center and plant the entire sprouted fruit, the tip barely showing.
Step 4
Water the chayote pot thoroughly and place it in a sunny window until temperatures outside are warm. Keep soil evenly moist but not soggy.
Step 5
Place the pot outdoors when temperatures are warm, adjacent to the fence or trellis that will provide support. Water regularly, thoroughly saturating the soil. You may water once or twice daily during hot weather, because roots are limited to moisture available to them in the container.
Step 6
Mulch the chayote soil with several inches of mulch to conserve moisture. Tend the vine all summer; it will grow to 30 feet or more before blossoming or setting fruit. Vines will bloom in August or September and be covered with chayotes by September or October.
Step 7
Harvest fruits when pickle size, sliced-cucumber size or 1-pound-pear size. Vines will die back after the first frost, but fruits won't be damaged until the first hard frost. Protect the dormant roots by storing the pot in a cool -- not frosty -- garage or basement until spring. Water the pot lightly every month or so.
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