文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月05日
Grow a container of astilbe (Astilbe spp.), also called false spirea, for a splash of color in a shade garden or on a shady or partly sunny porch or patio. These plants grow anywhere from 6 to 36 inches tall and 12 to 24 inches wide, so you can find the right fit whether you want a compact variety for a small pot or a sprawling cultivar in a large planter. Astilbe grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 4 through 9, with some variation depending species or cultivar.
Varieties for Containers
You can grow tall varieties for height in patio planters or pick one of the dwarf types for a more compact look.
Compact Cultivars to Grow in Pots
Chinese astilbe 'Pumila' (_Astilbe chinensis_ 'Pumila') grows just 7 to 9 inches tall in part shade to full sun. This cultivar has pink flowers and grows in USDA zones 4 through 8.
Chinese astilbe 'Finale' (_Astilbe chinensis _'Finale') is another pink-blooming, 8- to 12-inch-tall cultivar hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This astilbe prefers part shade to full sun.
Dwarf astilbe 'Sprite' (_Astilbe simplicifolia_ 'Sprite') is also a pink-flowering astilbe ideal for even colder climates. It grows 10 to 12 inches tall in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Full-Size Varieties for Containers
The 'Red Sentinel' cultivar (_Astilbe japonica_ 'Red Sentinel') is a striking, bright-red astilbe that grows 24 inches tall in full shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This sprawling cultivar grows 18 to 24 inches wide, making it ideal for large patio planters and half-barrel planters.
The hybrid cultivar 'Bridal Veil' (_Astilbe x arendsii _'Bridal Veil (Brautschler)') is a sprawling white-flowering cultivar that grows 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. It grows in part shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8.
Find the Right Container
Three things to consider when picking out a pot for astilbe are size, drainage and material:
Look for a planter 16 inches or more around and at least 12 inches deep. Bigger planters, like half barrels and large patio planters, allow you to plant even more astilbe together.
Every container you use must have a drainage hole, and ideally more than one, to allow excess water to escape. Pots without holes in the bottom collect water, drowning the roots over time.
Container material matters. Terra cotta and wood planters allow more air circulation than less porous materials. This helps prevent soggy soil and root rot problems. Metal containers are aesthetically pleasing, but in summer, the excess heat trapped in the metal can overheat the plant roots. Glazed ceramic and plastic work well without getting overly hot but can trap water. If you intend to move the container around, a lighter wood or plastic pot is best.
Potting Soil Solutions
Use a standard quality potting soil to fill the containers and skip the garden soil. If you want to make your own potting soil, try one of these recipes to make a light, porous, well-draining potting mix:
Equal parts peat moss, sand, perlite, compost and composted bark chips.
One part sand, one part perlite and two parts peat moss.
Equal parts pine bark, peat moss and sand.
Light, Water and Fertilizer
Astilbe grow in full shade to sun, depending on the type. Full shade means no direct sunlight, whereas full sun is a spot that gets six hours or more of sun per day. If you're growing a grouping of astilbe together in a large planter, space small varieties 6 inches apart. For larger astilbe, set them 8 to 12 inches apart.
Water when the potting soil dries out 1 inch deep. In general plan to water twice a week, but you may have to water more often in hot weather to keep the soil from drying out and less often in wet weather so that the pots don't get overly saturated. At each session, apply the water slowly until you see it start to leak out the hole in the bottom of the pot.
Fertilize twice a month beginning in the spring when the first new shoots appear. Stop fertilizing through the winter when astilbe go dormant. Use a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer. For each container, use 1 teaspoon of fertilizer mixed with 1 gallon of water.
Varieties for Containers
You can grow tall varieties for height in patio planters or pick one of the dwarf types for a more compact look.
Compact Cultivars to Grow in Pots
Chinese astilbe 'Pumila' (_Astilbe chinensis_ 'Pumila') grows just 7 to 9 inches tall in part shade to full sun. This cultivar has pink flowers and grows in USDA zones 4 through 8.
Chinese astilbe 'Finale' (_Astilbe chinensis _'Finale') is another pink-blooming, 8- to 12-inch-tall cultivar hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This astilbe prefers part shade to full sun.
Dwarf astilbe 'Sprite' (_Astilbe simplicifolia_ 'Sprite') is also a pink-flowering astilbe ideal for even colder climates. It grows 10 to 12 inches tall in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Full-Size Varieties for Containers
The 'Red Sentinel' cultivar (_Astilbe japonica_ 'Red Sentinel') is a striking, bright-red astilbe that grows 24 inches tall in full shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This sprawling cultivar grows 18 to 24 inches wide, making it ideal for large patio planters and half-barrel planters.
The hybrid cultivar 'Bridal Veil' (_Astilbe x arendsii _'Bridal Veil (Brautschler)') is a sprawling white-flowering cultivar that grows 24 to 30 inches tall and wide. It grows in part shade to full sun and is hardy in USDA zones 3 through 8.
Find the Right Container
Three things to consider when picking out a pot for astilbe are size, drainage and material:
Look for a planter 16 inches or more around and at least 12 inches deep. Bigger planters, like half barrels and large patio planters, allow you to plant even more astilbe together.
Every container you use must have a drainage hole, and ideally more than one, to allow excess water to escape. Pots without holes in the bottom collect water, drowning the roots over time.
Container material matters. Terra cotta and wood planters allow more air circulation than less porous materials. This helps prevent soggy soil and root rot problems. Metal containers are aesthetically pleasing, but in summer, the excess heat trapped in the metal can overheat the plant roots. Glazed ceramic and plastic work well without getting overly hot but can trap water. If you intend to move the container around, a lighter wood or plastic pot is best.
Potting Soil Solutions
Use a standard quality potting soil to fill the containers and skip the garden soil. If you want to make your own potting soil, try one of these recipes to make a light, porous, well-draining potting mix:
Equal parts peat moss, sand, perlite, compost and composted bark chips.
One part sand, one part perlite and two parts peat moss.
Equal parts pine bark, peat moss and sand.
Light, Water and Fertilizer
Astilbe grow in full shade to sun, depending on the type. Full shade means no direct sunlight, whereas full sun is a spot that gets six hours or more of sun per day. If you're growing a grouping of astilbe together in a large planter, space small varieties 6 inches apart. For larger astilbe, set them 8 to 12 inches apart.
Water when the potting soil dries out 1 inch deep. In general plan to water twice a week, but you may have to water more often in hot weather to keep the soil from drying out and less often in wet weather so that the pots don't get overly saturated. At each session, apply the water slowly until you see it start to leak out the hole in the bottom of the pot.
Fertilize twice a month beginning in the spring when the first new shoots appear. Stop fertilizing through the winter when astilbe go dormant. Use a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer. For each container, use 1 teaspoon of fertilizer mixed with 1 gallon of water.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月05日
The energetic and showy goat's beard perennial (Aruncus dioicus) can fill in a sunny or partially sunny growing location with vibrant foliage and white, fuzzy blossoms. This dense flowering plant may reach heights of up to 6 feet with showy white flowers sitting among the leaves during midsummer. Give this flowering plant basic care, including pruning goat's beard perennial at the proper time, to keep the plant healthy and attractive.
Step 1
Trim the white blossoms after the goat's beard finishes blossoming in the middle of the summer. Use the pruning shears to trim the stems off at the base of the plant. Deadheading the goat's beard keeps the plant neat and may stimulate a second bloom before the end of the growing season.
Step 2
Place the stems into the bucket for disposal. Do not leave the trimmed foliage on the soil around the plant because it may create an unhealthy growing environment for the plant.
Step 3
Cut back the dead growth in the spring before the plant begins growing again. Use the pruning shears to cut the dead growth off just above the soil level. The plant will respond by producing fresh new shoots for the current growing season.
Step 4
Discard the dead growth in a compost bin or the trash.
Step 1
Trim the white blossoms after the goat's beard finishes blossoming in the middle of the summer. Use the pruning shears to trim the stems off at the base of the plant. Deadheading the goat's beard keeps the plant neat and may stimulate a second bloom before the end of the growing season.
Step 2
Place the stems into the bucket for disposal. Do not leave the trimmed foliage on the soil around the plant because it may create an unhealthy growing environment for the plant.
Step 3
Cut back the dead growth in the spring before the plant begins growing again. Use the pruning shears to cut the dead growth off just above the soil level. The plant will respond by producing fresh new shoots for the current growing season.
Step 4
Discard the dead growth in a compost bin or the trash.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月03日
Description: This plant is an obligatory biennial that forms a rosette of leaves during the first year, and bolts upward during the second year to produce flowers. It forms occasional side stems, but remains erect in stature, reaching 3-6' in height. The stout stems are light green, somewhat angular, and covered with dense white hairs. The alternate leaves are up to 7" long and 2" across. In outline, they are lanceolate in shape, but deeply pinnatifid. The widely spaced lobes narrow into points that are individually armed with a pale yellow spine. Some of the upper leaves near the flowerheads may be lanceolate or linear, but remain unlobed. Across the surface of the leaves, there are short white hairs and scattered small spines. The upper surface is dark green, while the lower surface is light green. At the base of each leaf, there are a pair of narrow wings that are dark green and decurrent against the stem. These wings are extensions of the leaves and arm the stems with spines up to ¼" long.
The upper stems terminate in flowerheads of purplish pink to purple flowers. Each flowerhead is 1½–2" across and contains numerous disk florets, but no ray florets. Each disk floret is long and tubular, but becomes divided into 5 long thread-like lobes. This provides the flowerhead with a showy hair-like appearance. At the base of each flowerhead, are numerous green bracts that taper into stiff points that curl outward and are quite prickly. Among these bracts are cobwebby hairs in the background. The blooming period occurs from mid- to late summer and lasts about 3-4 weeks, after which the florets wither away. They are replaced by achenes with large tufts of white hair. These achenes are long, slender, and slightly ribbed. TheyDistribution Map are dispersed by the wind. The root system consists of a stout taproot that runs deep into the ground. This plants spreads by reseeding itself and occasionally forms colonies.
Cultivation: This thistle usually grows in full sun under moist to dry conditions. It prefers a fertile soil that consists of loam, clay loam, or that is slightly stony. Occasionally the foliage is affected by mildew during the summer or fall. Individual plants can produce a great abundance of seed, which have a high germination and survival rate. Thus, this plant can be quite aggressive. Because the seeds remain viable for only 1-2 years, one control strategy consists of destroying individual plants before they reach the flowering stage. It is possible for a plant to reestablish itself if a portion of the taproot remains in the ground.
Range & Habitat: The Bull Thistle is a common plant that occurs in most counties of Illinois. This thistle is adventive from Eurasia, and it has existed in the United States since the 19th century, if not earlier. Habitats include pastures, abandoned fields, fence rows, areas along roadsides and railroads, cut-over woods, and miscellaneous waste areas. This species prefers disturbed areas and it is not common in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract many kinds of long-tongued bees, including bumblebees, leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp.). The flower nectar also attracts butterflies (especially swallowtails), skippers, and bee flies. Green metallic bees and other Halictid bees may collect pollen from the flowers, but they are non-pollinating. The caterpillars of the butterfly Vanessa cardui (Painted Lady) feed on the foliage. There are also many moth species with caterpillars that consume various parts of thistles (see Moth Table). The seeds are eaten by the American Goldfinch and the Clay-colored Sparrow. Goldfinches also use the tufts of hair as construction material for their little nests. Mammalian herbivores don't eat the Bull Thistle because it is heavily armed with spines. Even in overgrazed pastures where cattle and sheep have little to eat, the Bull Thistle is one of the few plants that is left alone.
Photographic Location: Along a fence row near the webmaster's apartment in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a very spiny thistle that can become quite tall. It is easily distinguished from many of the native thistles by the prickly bracts at the base of the flowerheads. These large bracts curl outward and narrow into sharp points, while the bracts of native thistles are appressed together and resemble green fish scales (fine spines are usually present on the outer bracts for some native species). The leaf undersides of the Bull Thistle are light green or whitish green, while the leaf undersides for some native thistles, such as Cirsium discolor (Pasture Thistle) and Cirsium altissimum (Tall Thistle), are powdery white in appearance. Other native thistles, however, don't have this latter characteristic. The Bull Thistle also has spines on its stems (from the decurrent extensions of the leaves), while the stems of native thistles are spineless.
The upper stems terminate in flowerheads of purplish pink to purple flowers. Each flowerhead is 1½–2" across and contains numerous disk florets, but no ray florets. Each disk floret is long and tubular, but becomes divided into 5 long thread-like lobes. This provides the flowerhead with a showy hair-like appearance. At the base of each flowerhead, are numerous green bracts that taper into stiff points that curl outward and are quite prickly. Among these bracts are cobwebby hairs in the background. The blooming period occurs from mid- to late summer and lasts about 3-4 weeks, after which the florets wither away. They are replaced by achenes with large tufts of white hair. These achenes are long, slender, and slightly ribbed. TheyDistribution Map are dispersed by the wind. The root system consists of a stout taproot that runs deep into the ground. This plants spreads by reseeding itself and occasionally forms colonies.
Cultivation: This thistle usually grows in full sun under moist to dry conditions. It prefers a fertile soil that consists of loam, clay loam, or that is slightly stony. Occasionally the foliage is affected by mildew during the summer or fall. Individual plants can produce a great abundance of seed, which have a high germination and survival rate. Thus, this plant can be quite aggressive. Because the seeds remain viable for only 1-2 years, one control strategy consists of destroying individual plants before they reach the flowering stage. It is possible for a plant to reestablish itself if a portion of the taproot remains in the ground.
Range & Habitat: The Bull Thistle is a common plant that occurs in most counties of Illinois. This thistle is adventive from Eurasia, and it has existed in the United States since the 19th century, if not earlier. Habitats include pastures, abandoned fields, fence rows, areas along roadsides and railroads, cut-over woods, and miscellaneous waste areas. This species prefers disturbed areas and it is not common in high quality natural areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract many kinds of long-tongued bees, including bumblebees, leaf-cutting bees (Megachile spp.), long-horned bees (Melissodes spp.), and cuckoo bees (Epeolus spp.). The flower nectar also attracts butterflies (especially swallowtails), skippers, and bee flies. Green metallic bees and other Halictid bees may collect pollen from the flowers, but they are non-pollinating. The caterpillars of the butterfly Vanessa cardui (Painted Lady) feed on the foliage. There are also many moth species with caterpillars that consume various parts of thistles (see Moth Table). The seeds are eaten by the American Goldfinch and the Clay-colored Sparrow. Goldfinches also use the tufts of hair as construction material for their little nests. Mammalian herbivores don't eat the Bull Thistle because it is heavily armed with spines. Even in overgrazed pastures where cattle and sheep have little to eat, the Bull Thistle is one of the few plants that is left alone.
Photographic Location: Along a fence row near the webmaster's apartment in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: This is a very spiny thistle that can become quite tall. It is easily distinguished from many of the native thistles by the prickly bracts at the base of the flowerheads. These large bracts curl outward and narrow into sharp points, while the bracts of native thistles are appressed together and resemble green fish scales (fine spines are usually present on the outer bracts for some native species). The leaf undersides of the Bull Thistle are light green or whitish green, while the leaf undersides for some native thistles, such as Cirsium discolor (Pasture Thistle) and Cirsium altissimum (Tall Thistle), are powdery white in appearance. Other native thistles, however, don't have this latter characteristic. The Bull Thistle also has spines on its stems (from the decurrent extensions of the leaves), while the stems of native thistles are spineless.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月03日
Description: This herbaceous plant is a summer annual. A typical plant is about 6" tall and 12" across; it is abundantly branched at the base, and occasionally branched above. The stems are ascending to sprawling, more or less terete, pale reddish green to reddish purple, and glabrous. Sometimes the stems have vertical stripes that are green alternating with red. Alternate leaves occur along the entire length of each stem; they are ¾–2" long and 6-15 mm. across. The leaves are elliptic-oblong, elliptic, broadly elliptic, or lanceolate; they are shallowly pinnatifid, coarsely dentate, and/or sinuate along their margins. The leaf bases are wedge-shaped, while their tips and lobes (if any) are blunt or acute. The upper leaf surface is medium green or bluish green and glabrous, while the lower leaf surface is white-mealy (farinose). The petioles are up to ½" long, light green to yellowish red, and glabrous. The stems eventually terminate in either spikes or panicles of interrupted clusters of flowers; there are also axillary spikes of flowers that develop from the upper leaves. Individual floral spikes are up to 2" long; there are several small flowers per cluster. Some flowers may have pedicels up to 0.5 mm. long. Each mature flower is about 2 mm. across, consisting of 3-5 greenish sepals, 3-5 stamens, and a pistil with a pair of styles; there are no petals. The sepals are lanceolate to ovate, bluntly tipped, and glabrous; they are either weakly keeled or flat. The stamens are exserted with yellow anthers. The rachises of floral spikes are glabrous.
The blooming period occurs from early summer to early autumn. However, individual plants remain in bloom for about 1 month; only a few flowers bloom at the same time. The flowers are cross-pollinated by the wind. Afterwards, the ovaries of the flowers develop into seeds (a single seed per flower); the orientation of these seeds may be vertical or horizontal. The persistent sepals cover only the edges of these seeds. Individual seeds are 0.5–1 mm. across, globular-flattened in shape, and dark brown to dark reddish brown. Thin membranes cover the seeds; they are easily removed. The root system consists of a shallow taproot with secondary roots that are fibrous. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, more or less mesic conditions, and soil containing some sand or loose loam. The size of individual plants is variable, depending on soil fertility and moisture conditions. Once the seeds have germinated in late spring, growth and development is rapid.
Range & Habitat: The adventive Oak-leaved Goosefoot is occasional in NE Illinois and uncommon elsewhere in the state (see Distribution Map). This plant is native to Eurasia. Habitats include cropland, gardens, construction sites, areas along railroads, roadsides, barnyards, and waste areas. Habitats with a history of disturbance are preferred, especially when this exposes the topsoil.
Faunal Associations: Various insects feed on the foliage, roots, and other parts of goosefoot species (Chenopodium spp.). These insect feeders include the Three-spotted Flea Beetle (Disonycha triangularis), larvae of the Spinach Leafminer Fly (Pegomya hyoscyami), the Chenopodium Aphid (Hayhurstia atriplicis) and Sugar Beet Root Aphid (Pemphigus betae), the Chenopodium Leafhopper (Norvellina chenopodii), and the larvae of such moths as the Flamboyant Twirler Moth (Chrysoesthia lingulacella), Hollow-spotted Blepharomastix (Blepharomastix ranalis), Chenopodium Scythris Moth (Scythris limbella), Eight-Spot (Amyna octo), Ragweed Borer Moth (Epiblema strenuana), and Morning Glory Plume Moth (Emmelina monodactyla). In addition, the caterpillars of two skippers, the Common Sootywing (Pholisora catullus) and Hayhurst's Scallopwing (Staphylus hayhurstii), also feed on these plants. Among vertebrate animals, upland gamebirds and many songbirds, especially sparrows, eat the seeds of goosefoot species (Martin et al., 1951/1961). The Bird Table provides a list of these species. Some small rodents also eat the seeds, including the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel, Prairie Deer Mouse, and White-footed Mouse (Whitaker, 1966). White-tailed Deer browse on the foliage and seedheads of goosefoot species, including Oak-leaved Goosefoot. The seeds of these plants are able to pass through the digestive tract of this animal and remain viable. In this manner, the seeds are dispersed across considerable distances (Myers et al., 2004).
Photographic Location: Along a sidewalk in Urbana, Illinois, where some construction and landscaping activity occurred.
Comments: Oak-leaved Goosefoot (Chenopodium glaucum) can be distinguished from most goosefoot species (Chenopodium spp.) by the shape of its leaves. In addition, the undersides of its leaves are white-mealy, while the rest of the plant is glabrous or nearly so. The flowers of Oak-leaved Goosefoot are also glabrous, and their sepals cover only the margins of the developing ovaries or seeds. Other goosefoot species usually have differently shaped leaves, their flowers are more or less white-mealy, and their sepals cover most of the developing ovaries or seeds. Like other weedy goosefoot species, Oak-leaved Goosefoot has a preference for disturbed habitats with exposed topsoil. It is less erect than most of them, having a tendency to remain relatively low and sprawl across the ground. There is a variety of Oak-leaved Goosefoot, Chenopodium glaucum salinum, that is native to the western United States. It tends to have bluish foliage, while the lobes, teeth, and tips of its leaves are usually more narrow and pointed. There are no records of this variety occurring in Illinois at the present time.
The blooming period occurs from early summer to early autumn. However, individual plants remain in bloom for about 1 month; only a few flowers bloom at the same time. The flowers are cross-pollinated by the wind. Afterwards, the ovaries of the flowers develop into seeds (a single seed per flower); the orientation of these seeds may be vertical or horizontal. The persistent sepals cover only the edges of these seeds. Individual seeds are 0.5–1 mm. across, globular-flattened in shape, and dark brown to dark reddish brown. Thin membranes cover the seeds; they are easily removed. The root system consists of a shallow taproot with secondary roots that are fibrous. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full to partial sun, more or less mesic conditions, and soil containing some sand or loose loam. The size of individual plants is variable, depending on soil fertility and moisture conditions. Once the seeds have germinated in late spring, growth and development is rapid.
Range & Habitat: The adventive Oak-leaved Goosefoot is occasional in NE Illinois and uncommon elsewhere in the state (see Distribution Map). This plant is native to Eurasia. Habitats include cropland, gardens, construction sites, areas along railroads, roadsides, barnyards, and waste areas. Habitats with a history of disturbance are preferred, especially when this exposes the topsoil.
Faunal Associations: Various insects feed on the foliage, roots, and other parts of goosefoot species (Chenopodium spp.). These insect feeders include the Three-spotted Flea Beetle (Disonycha triangularis), larvae of the Spinach Leafminer Fly (Pegomya hyoscyami), the Chenopodium Aphid (Hayhurstia atriplicis) and Sugar Beet Root Aphid (Pemphigus betae), the Chenopodium Leafhopper (Norvellina chenopodii), and the larvae of such moths as the Flamboyant Twirler Moth (Chrysoesthia lingulacella), Hollow-spotted Blepharomastix (Blepharomastix ranalis), Chenopodium Scythris Moth (Scythris limbella), Eight-Spot (Amyna octo), Ragweed Borer Moth (Epiblema strenuana), and Morning Glory Plume Moth (Emmelina monodactyla). In addition, the caterpillars of two skippers, the Common Sootywing (Pholisora catullus) and Hayhurst's Scallopwing (Staphylus hayhurstii), also feed on these plants. Among vertebrate animals, upland gamebirds and many songbirds, especially sparrows, eat the seeds of goosefoot species (Martin et al., 1951/1961). The Bird Table provides a list of these species. Some small rodents also eat the seeds, including the Thirteen-lined Ground Squirrel, Prairie Deer Mouse, and White-footed Mouse (Whitaker, 1966). White-tailed Deer browse on the foliage and seedheads of goosefoot species, including Oak-leaved Goosefoot. The seeds of these plants are able to pass through the digestive tract of this animal and remain viable. In this manner, the seeds are dispersed across considerable distances (Myers et al., 2004).
Photographic Location: Along a sidewalk in Urbana, Illinois, where some construction and landscaping activity occurred.
Comments: Oak-leaved Goosefoot (Chenopodium glaucum) can be distinguished from most goosefoot species (Chenopodium spp.) by the shape of its leaves. In addition, the undersides of its leaves are white-mealy, while the rest of the plant is glabrous or nearly so. The flowers of Oak-leaved Goosefoot are also glabrous, and their sepals cover only the margins of the developing ovaries or seeds. Other goosefoot species usually have differently shaped leaves, their flowers are more or less white-mealy, and their sepals cover most of the developing ovaries or seeds. Like other weedy goosefoot species, Oak-leaved Goosefoot has a preference for disturbed habitats with exposed topsoil. It is less erect than most of them, having a tendency to remain relatively low and sprawl across the ground. There is a variety of Oak-leaved Goosefoot, Chenopodium glaucum salinum, that is native to the western United States. It tends to have bluish foliage, while the lobes, teeth, and tips of its leaves are usually more narrow and pointed. There are no records of this variety occurring in Illinois at the present time.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月02日
Purple sage (Salvia leucophylla) is an evergreen plant that typically grows 3 to 6 feet tall, though some individual specimens have been known to reach 12 feet tall and 12 feet wide. Purple sage shrubs have aromatic gray-green vegetation, an attractive, airy form and fragrant lavender-pink blooms. They thrive in full sun but need no water once established, which makes them ideal for drought-tolerant landscaping. Plants also tolerate freezing temperatures. This distant relative of culinary sage is best pruned minimally, to support general plant health and encourage optimal flowering in the landscape.
Step 1
Prune purple sage only with a purpose, because any unnecessary trimming will only diminish the amount of attractive, fragrant flowers.
Step 2
Make major pruning cuts only when purple sage is dormant, near the end of the winter when the coldest temperatures have passed.
Step 3
Assess the shrub and its condition thoroughly before making any additional pruning cuts. First cut off dead, diseased or otherwise damaged branches and stems.
Step 4
Stand back to study the plant's symmetry and general proportions, walking all the way around if necessary. Make your next cuts to enhance overall balance.
Step 5
Trim lightly to remove dead branches and stems -- or to make corrective cuts you may have missed earlier -- at any time during the year.
Step 6
Deadhead spent purple sage flowers for a neater look if desired, but this isn't absolutely necessary because dried flowers look fine too -- and leaving them gives seeds a chance to develop and disperse.
Step 1
Prune purple sage only with a purpose, because any unnecessary trimming will only diminish the amount of attractive, fragrant flowers.
Step 2
Make major pruning cuts only when purple sage is dormant, near the end of the winter when the coldest temperatures have passed.
Step 3
Assess the shrub and its condition thoroughly before making any additional pruning cuts. First cut off dead, diseased or otherwise damaged branches and stems.
Step 4
Stand back to study the plant's symmetry and general proportions, walking all the way around if necessary. Make your next cuts to enhance overall balance.
Step 5
Trim lightly to remove dead branches and stems -- or to make corrective cuts you may have missed earlier -- at any time during the year.
Step 6
Deadhead spent purple sage flowers for a neater look if desired, but this isn't absolutely necessary because dried flowers look fine too -- and leaving them gives seeds a chance to develop and disperse.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年08月02日
The name golden moss fern is deceptive as this plant is neither a moss nor a fern, but it does share characteristics of both. Like ferns and moss, this plant is non-flowering and produces spores as a primary means of reproduction. It grows just 6 inches tall with a spreading growth pattern that resembles a moss. Golden moss fern grows well as a ground cover in shady damp areas. It is also known by its scientific name, Selaginella kraussiana 'aurea,' or the common name gold clubmoss.
Step 1
Plant golden moss fern in peat or humus-rich soil. A shady spot that naturally stays slightly damp most of the year is ideal. Avoid planting it in areas that experience periods of standing water or perpetually muddy conditions.
Step 2
Dig a planting hole the same depth and 3 to 4 inches wider than the root mass. Slide the golden moss fern out of the nursery container and place it upright in the hole. Backfill the hole and smooth the soil under the golden moss fern.
Step 3
Space multiple plants 6 to 12 inches apart. Individual golden moss fern plants reach a diameter of up to 2 feet when mature, but you may plant them closer together to get a ground cover started and then divide the plant later if they get too crowded.
Step 4
Fertilize the plants twice a month. Use an all-purpose balanced fertilizer but dilute it to one-quarter the strength recommended on the package. Select a water-soluble or a slow-release formula. Discontinue fertilizing in the fall and resume in the spring.
Step 5
Water the soil around golden moss ferns when it starts to feel dry on top. Soak the area around each plant down to 1 to 2 inches deep.
Step 6
Divide golden moss fern in the spring. Dig up the entire root ball and pull it into sections of about 4 to 6 inches across. Replant the divisions in the garden or pot them for use as indoor plants. Replant the main root mass in the original spot.
Step 1
Plant golden moss fern in peat or humus-rich soil. A shady spot that naturally stays slightly damp most of the year is ideal. Avoid planting it in areas that experience periods of standing water or perpetually muddy conditions.
Step 2
Dig a planting hole the same depth and 3 to 4 inches wider than the root mass. Slide the golden moss fern out of the nursery container and place it upright in the hole. Backfill the hole and smooth the soil under the golden moss fern.
Step 3
Space multiple plants 6 to 12 inches apart. Individual golden moss fern plants reach a diameter of up to 2 feet when mature, but you may plant them closer together to get a ground cover started and then divide the plant later if they get too crowded.
Step 4
Fertilize the plants twice a month. Use an all-purpose balanced fertilizer but dilute it to one-quarter the strength recommended on the package. Select a water-soluble or a slow-release formula. Discontinue fertilizing in the fall and resume in the spring.
Step 5
Water the soil around golden moss ferns when it starts to feel dry on top. Soak the area around each plant down to 1 to 2 inches deep.
Step 6
Divide golden moss fern in the spring. Dig up the entire root ball and pull it into sections of about 4 to 6 inches across. Replant the divisions in the garden or pot them for use as indoor plants. Replant the main root mass in the original spot.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月31日
Description: This little plant is a winter or spring annual about 2-6" tall. A mature plant becomes tufted at the base, sending up multiple stems. These stems are green and pubescent. The opposite leaves are up to ¾" long and about half as much across. These leaves are broadly oblong or ovate-oblong, green, and pubescent; they have conspicuous central veins, smooth margins, and sessile bases.
The upper stems terminate in small cymes or individual flowers; sometimes the lower cymes branch into secondary cymes of flowers. The peduncles and pedicels of these cymes are light green and pubescent. At the base of each peduncle, there is a pair of green leaf-like bracts. These bracts are broadly lanceolate-oblong or lanceolate-ovate, pubescent, and smooth along the margins; some of the upper bracts have thin translucent margins toward their tips (i.e., they are slightly scarious). These translucent margins are more apparent in mature or dried-out plants than young specimens. The flowers at the tips of the pedicels are up to ¼" across when they are fully open. Each flower has 5 white petals, 5 green sepals, 5 white styles, and 5 stamens with pale yellow anthers. Each petal has several pale lines at its base, while its tip is notched. The sepals are lanceolate and hairy; their margins are translucent. The blooming period occurs during the spring and lasts about 1 month; this is one of the earliest wildflowers to bloom during the spring. The flowers open up during spring days that are sunny and warm. Some plants begin to bloom when they are only 1" tall. Each flower is replaced by a cylindrical capsule containing manyDistribution Map small seeds. Each seed capsule is straight to slightly curved; there are 10 small teeth along its upper rim. The seeds are brown, somewhat flattened, and minutely warty or pebbly. The root system consists mostly of thin fibrous roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself and it often forms small colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist to slightly dry conditions, and sterile soil with little ground vegetation. In Illinois, this little plant completes its growth cycle during the spring.
Range & Habitat: Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed is occasional in central and NE Illinois, while in other areas of the state it is uncommon or absent. This plant was accidentally introduced into the United States from Europe. Habitats consist of fields, disturbed grassy meadows, areas along roads, barren ground in lawns, and waste areas. Areas with a history of disturbance and environmental degradation are strongly preferred. This little plant tolerates road salt and other run-off chemicals better than most kinds of turf-grass; it also tolerates hardpan clay and gravel better than turf-grass.
Faunal Associations: Like other Chickweeds (Cerastium spp., Stellaria spp.), the flowers of this species attract small bees and Syrphid flies. While the foliage of Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed is potentially edible to rabbits, it is rarely eaten because of its diminutive size and early spring growth. Small granivorous songbirds (e.g., sparrows) may use the seeds as a minor source of food.
Photographic Location: A barren area along a roadside in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There are several Cerastium spp. (Mouse-Eared Chickweeds) in Illinois and they are difficult to distinguish from each other. I believe that the species in the photograph above is Cerastium pumilum (Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed) for the following reasons: 1) It is a short-lived annual that completes its life-cycle during the spring, 2) Each of its flowers has 5 stamens and 5 styles, 3) Its flowers always have 5 petals, and 4) Its floral bracts usually lack translucent margins, except for some of the upper bracts on mature plants. Other Mouse-Eared Chickweeds are perennials (e.g., Cerastium fontanum), or they have flowers with 10 stamens (e.g., Cerastium brachypetalum, Cerastium glomeratum), or they produce flowers with 4 petals (e.g., Cerastium diffusum), or all of their bracts have conspicuous translucent margins (e.g., Cerastium semidecandrum).
The upper stems terminate in small cymes or individual flowers; sometimes the lower cymes branch into secondary cymes of flowers. The peduncles and pedicels of these cymes are light green and pubescent. At the base of each peduncle, there is a pair of green leaf-like bracts. These bracts are broadly lanceolate-oblong or lanceolate-ovate, pubescent, and smooth along the margins; some of the upper bracts have thin translucent margins toward their tips (i.e., they are slightly scarious). These translucent margins are more apparent in mature or dried-out plants than young specimens. The flowers at the tips of the pedicels are up to ¼" across when they are fully open. Each flower has 5 white petals, 5 green sepals, 5 white styles, and 5 stamens with pale yellow anthers. Each petal has several pale lines at its base, while its tip is notched. The sepals are lanceolate and hairy; their margins are translucent. The blooming period occurs during the spring and lasts about 1 month; this is one of the earliest wildflowers to bloom during the spring. The flowers open up during spring days that are sunny and warm. Some plants begin to bloom when they are only 1" tall. Each flower is replaced by a cylindrical capsule containing manyDistribution Map small seeds. Each seed capsule is straight to slightly curved; there are 10 small teeth along its upper rim. The seeds are brown, somewhat flattened, and minutely warty or pebbly. The root system consists mostly of thin fibrous roots. This plant spreads by reseeding itself and it often forms small colonies.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, moist to slightly dry conditions, and sterile soil with little ground vegetation. In Illinois, this little plant completes its growth cycle during the spring.
Range & Habitat: Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed is occasional in central and NE Illinois, while in other areas of the state it is uncommon or absent. This plant was accidentally introduced into the United States from Europe. Habitats consist of fields, disturbed grassy meadows, areas along roads, barren ground in lawns, and waste areas. Areas with a history of disturbance and environmental degradation are strongly preferred. This little plant tolerates road salt and other run-off chemicals better than most kinds of turf-grass; it also tolerates hardpan clay and gravel better than turf-grass.
Faunal Associations: Like other Chickweeds (Cerastium spp., Stellaria spp.), the flowers of this species attract small bees and Syrphid flies. While the foliage of Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed is potentially edible to rabbits, it is rarely eaten because of its diminutive size and early spring growth. Small granivorous songbirds (e.g., sparrows) may use the seeds as a minor source of food.
Photographic Location: A barren area along a roadside in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: There are several Cerastium spp. (Mouse-Eared Chickweeds) in Illinois and they are difficult to distinguish from each other. I believe that the species in the photograph above is Cerastium pumilum (Small Mouse-Eared Chickweed) for the following reasons: 1) It is a short-lived annual that completes its life-cycle during the spring, 2) Each of its flowers has 5 stamens and 5 styles, 3) Its flowers always have 5 petals, and 4) Its floral bracts usually lack translucent margins, except for some of the upper bracts on mature plants. Other Mouse-Eared Chickweeds are perennials (e.g., Cerastium fontanum), or they have flowers with 10 stamens (e.g., Cerastium brachypetalum, Cerastium glomeratum), or they produce flowers with 4 petals (e.g., Cerastium diffusum), or all of their bracts have conspicuous translucent margins (e.g., Cerastium semidecandrum).
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求助
jordi
2018年07月26日
ID Help Please !! I have this plant and have had it for 2-3 years. The third pic is the plant as a baby. This big boy got so tall and is now over 1 and a half feet (not even straightened, I measured it while it was in its natural position) It was about 6 inches when I first got it. Some sticks are in the soil to help hold the limbs up, they are not part of the plant. Thanks !
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初心～：你这个长成了恨天高
jordi：@Shanee I think it wouldn’t be a candelabra since I’ve had it for a long time and it hasn’t flowered. It is gooey inside so it’s possible though. Thanks so much !
Shanee：Possible candelabra aloe. Or aloe Vera that’s needing more light.
文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月25日
Description: This annual wildflower is 1½–2½' tall, branching occasionally. The stems are light to medium green, terete, hollow, and densely covered with stiff white hairs. Alternate leaves along these stems are 2-6" long and about one-third as much across; they are ovate, obovate, or oblanceolate in shape with margins that are smooth and slightly undulate. The upper leaf surface is dark green, wrinkled from indented veins, and covered with sparse appressed hairs. The lower leaf surface is light to medium green and hairy primarily along the undersides of the veins.
Upper stems terminate in scorpioid cymes of nodding flowers. Individual flowers are ¾-1" across, consisting of 5 lanceolate blue petals (rarely white or pink), 5 green sepals, 5 dark blue to black anthers that merge together to form a central beak, and an ovary with a single style. The linear sepals are covered with stiff white hairs along their outer surfaces; they are about the same length or a little shorter than the petals. Like the stems and sepals, the branches of each inflorescence are covered with stiff white hairs; they are green to dark red. In Illinois, the blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall, lasting about 1½-3 months. Each flower is replaced by 4 dark brown nutlets. The root system consists of a taproot. This wildflower spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is a sunny position, mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil.
Range & Habitat: Borage has naturalized in only a few counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). Naturalized populations rarely persist for more than a few years. Borage was introduced into North America from Europe as an herbal and ornamental plant; it is native to the Mediterranean area. Habitats consist of areas near buildings, rubbish heaps consisting of organic material, and waste areas. Borage is still cultivated in gardens.
Faunal Associations: According to Muëller (1873/1883), the nectar and pollen of the flowers attract bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, other long-tongued bees, and Halictid bees. It is unclear to what extent mammalian herbivores in North America feed on the foliage of Borage, which is mildly toxic from the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Similarly, there is lack of information about the consumption of seeds by birds and rodents.
Photographic Location: An herbal garden at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: The most striking aspect of this plant are the star-shaped flowers; the petals have a shade of genuine blue that is uncommon among flowering plants. The flowers are reportedly edible with a sweet taste. The leaves are also eaten in salads and other dishes; they have a cucumber-like flavor. However, because of their potential toxicity, the leaves should be eaten in only small amounts. Because of its unique blue flowers, Borage is easy to identify. Other species in the Borage family have flowers with more conventional corollas.
Upper stems terminate in scorpioid cymes of nodding flowers. Individual flowers are ¾-1" across, consisting of 5 lanceolate blue petals (rarely white or pink), 5 green sepals, 5 dark blue to black anthers that merge together to form a central beak, and an ovary with a single style. The linear sepals are covered with stiff white hairs along their outer surfaces; they are about the same length or a little shorter than the petals. Like the stems and sepals, the branches of each inflorescence are covered with stiff white hairs; they are green to dark red. In Illinois, the blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall, lasting about 1½-3 months. Each flower is replaced by 4 dark brown nutlets. The root system consists of a taproot. This wildflower spreads by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is a sunny position, mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil.
Range & Habitat: Borage has naturalized in only a few counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). Naturalized populations rarely persist for more than a few years. Borage was introduced into North America from Europe as an herbal and ornamental plant; it is native to the Mediterranean area. Habitats consist of areas near buildings, rubbish heaps consisting of organic material, and waste areas. Borage is still cultivated in gardens.
Faunal Associations: According to Muëller (1873/1883), the nectar and pollen of the flowers attract bees, including honeybees, bumblebees, other long-tongued bees, and Halictid bees. It is unclear to what extent mammalian herbivores in North America feed on the foliage of Borage, which is mildly toxic from the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Similarly, there is lack of information about the consumption of seeds by birds and rodents.
Photographic Location: An herbal garden at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: The most striking aspect of this plant are the star-shaped flowers; the petals have a shade of genuine blue that is uncommon among flowering plants. The flowers are reportedly edible with a sweet taste. The leaves are also eaten in salads and other dishes; they have a cucumber-like flavor. However, because of their potential toxicity, the leaves should be eaten in only small amounts. Because of its unique blue flowers, Borage is easy to identify. Other species in the Borage family have flowers with more conventional corollas.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月24日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is 2-6' tall and unbranched, except sometimes toward the apex, where the flowers occur. The central stem is relative stout, pale green, terete, and usually short-pubescent (less often glabrous). The opposite leaves are up to 8" long and 3½" wide, broadly oblong in shape, and smooth along their margins. The upper leaf surface is pale-medium to dark green and hairless above, while the lower leaf surface is densely covered with woolly hairs that are very short. There is a prominent central vein along the length of each leaf, and finer side veins that radiate outward toward the smooth margins. When either the central stem or leaves are torn, a milky sap oozes out that has variable toxicity in the form of cardiac glycosides.
Umbels of flowers, each about 2½-4" across, emerge from the axils of the upper leaves. These flowers are quite fragrant, with a scent resembling violets or pansies, and they range in color from faded light pink to reddish purple. Each flower is about ¼" across, consisting of 5 reflexed petals and 5 raised hoods with curved horns. The hoods are more light-colored than the petals. The pedicels of the flowers are light green to pale red and hairy. The blooming period lasts about 1-1½ months from early to mid-summer. The seedpods (follicles) are 3-4" long, broadly lanceoloid, and covered with soft prickles and short woolly hairs. At maturity, each seedpod split along one side to release numerous seeds that have large tufts of white hair. Dispersion of seed is by wind. The root system has long creeping rhizomes, promoting the vegetative spread of this plant.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, rich loamy soil, and mesic conditions, but this robust plant can tolerate a variety of situations, including partial sun and a high clay or sand content in the soil. Under ideal conditions, Common Milkweed can become 6' tall and spread aggressively, but it is more typically about 3-4' tall. This plant is very easy to grow once it becomes established.
Range & Habitat: The native Common Milkweed occurs in every county of Illinois and it is quite common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, sand dunes along lake shores, thickets, woodland borders, fields and pastures, abandoned fields, vacant lots, fence rows, and areas along railroads and roadsides. This plant is a colonizer of disturbed areas in both natural and developed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are very popular with many kinds of insects, especially long-tongued bees, wasps, flies, skippers, and butterflies, which seek nectar. Other insect visitors include short-tongued bees, various milkweed plant bugs, and moths, including Sphinx moths. Among these, the larger butterflies, predatory wasps, and long-tongued bees are more likely to remove the pollinia from the flowers. Some of the smaller insects can have their legs entrapped by the flowers and die. Common Milkweed doesn't produce fertile seeds without cross-pollination. The caterpillars of Danaus plexippes (Monarch Butterfly) feed on the foliage, as do the caterpillars of a few moths, including Enchaetes egle (Milkweed Tiger Moth), Cycnia inopinatus (Unexpected Cycnia), and Cycnia tenera (Delicate Cycnia). Less common insects feeding on this plant include Neacoryphus bicrucis (Seed Bug sp.) and Gymnetron tetrum (Weevil sp.); see Insect Table for other insect feeders). Many of these insects are brightly colored – a warning to potential predators of the toxicity that they acquired from feeding on milkweed. Mammalian herbivores don't eat this plant because of the bitterness of the leaves and their toxic properties.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois, and along a roadside ditch in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: Depending on the local ecotype, Common Milkweed is highly variable in appearance. The color of the flowers may be highly attractive, or faded and dingy-looking. This plant is often regarded as a weed to be destroyed, but its flowers and foliage provide food for many kinds of insects. Common Milkweed can be distinguished from other milkweeds by its prickly follicles (seedpods) – other Asclepias spp. within Illinois have follicles that are smooth, or nearly so.
Umbels of flowers, each about 2½-4" across, emerge from the axils of the upper leaves. These flowers are quite fragrant, with a scent resembling violets or pansies, and they range in color from faded light pink to reddish purple. Each flower is about ¼" across, consisting of 5 reflexed petals and 5 raised hoods with curved horns. The hoods are more light-colored than the petals. The pedicels of the flowers are light green to pale red and hairy. The blooming period lasts about 1-1½ months from early to mid-summer. The seedpods (follicles) are 3-4" long, broadly lanceoloid, and covered with soft prickles and short woolly hairs. At maturity, each seedpod split along one side to release numerous seeds that have large tufts of white hair. Dispersion of seed is by wind. The root system has long creeping rhizomes, promoting the vegetative spread of this plant.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, rich loamy soil, and mesic conditions, but this robust plant can tolerate a variety of situations, including partial sun and a high clay or sand content in the soil. Under ideal conditions, Common Milkweed can become 6' tall and spread aggressively, but it is more typically about 3-4' tall. This plant is very easy to grow once it becomes established.
Range & Habitat: The native Common Milkweed occurs in every county of Illinois and it is quite common (see Distribution Map). Habitats include moist to dry black soil prairies, sand prairies, sand dunes along lake shores, thickets, woodland borders, fields and pastures, abandoned fields, vacant lots, fence rows, and areas along railroads and roadsides. This plant is a colonizer of disturbed areas in both natural and developed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are very popular with many kinds of insects, especially long-tongued bees, wasps, flies, skippers, and butterflies, which seek nectar. Other insect visitors include short-tongued bees, various milkweed plant bugs, and moths, including Sphinx moths. Among these, the larger butterflies, predatory wasps, and long-tongued bees are more likely to remove the pollinia from the flowers. Some of the smaller insects can have their legs entrapped by the flowers and die. Common Milkweed doesn't produce fertile seeds without cross-pollination. The caterpillars of Danaus plexippes (Monarch Butterfly) feed on the foliage, as do the caterpillars of a few moths, including Enchaetes egle (Milkweed Tiger Moth), Cycnia inopinatus (Unexpected Cycnia), and Cycnia tenera (Delicate Cycnia). Less common insects feeding on this plant include Neacoryphus bicrucis (Seed Bug sp.) and Gymnetron tetrum (Weevil sp.); see Insect Table for other insect feeders). Many of these insects are brightly colored – a warning to potential predators of the toxicity that they acquired from feeding on milkweed. Mammalian herbivores don't eat this plant because of the bitterness of the leaves and their toxic properties.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at Meadowbrook Park in Urbana, Illinois, and along a roadside ditch in Champaign, Illinois.
Comments: Depending on the local ecotype, Common Milkweed is highly variable in appearance. The color of the flowers may be highly attractive, or faded and dingy-looking. This plant is often regarded as a weed to be destroyed, but its flowers and foliage provide food for many kinds of insects. Common Milkweed can be distinguished from other milkweeds by its prickly follicles (seedpods) – other Asclepias spp. within Illinois have follicles that are smooth, or nearly so.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月24日
Description: This plant is a summer annual about 3-6' tall; it is more or less erect and branches regularly. The light green stems are angular-terete, ridged, and hairless; the secondary stems are ascending or spreading. The alternate leaves are up to 6" long and 4" across, becoming smaller as they ascend the stems. They are green and hairless. Each leaf is pinnately divided (double or triple) into slender lobes that are narrowly lanceolate or oblong-lanceolate; some of these lobes are cleft or toothed along their margins. The lower leaves have petioles, while the upper leaves are sessile.
The upper stems terminate in floral panicles up to 1½' long and half as much across. The panicles are abundantly branched, each branch consisting of a raceme of small drooping flowerheads. about 1-2 mm. across (1/8" or less). Each flowerhead is about 2 mm. across (1/8" or less); it has many tiny disk florets. At the base of each flowerhead, there are 6 oblong bracts that are dark green. The blooming period occurs from late summer into the fall. There is no floral scent, although the foliage has a sweet fruity fragrance. Pollination is by wind. Upon maturity, each floret is replaced by a single achene. These achenes are small enough to be carried aloft by the wind, even though they lack tufts of hair. The root system consists of a branching taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and fertile loamy soil with high nitrogen content. This plant also adapts to gravelly and sandy soil.
Range & Habitat: Annual Wormwood is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map). It was introduced from Eurasia as a medicinal herb. Escaped plants usually don't persist in a given location. Habitats include woodland borders, low-lying areas along rivers and ponds, fields, vacant lots, edges of yards, fence rows, gardens, back alleys in older cities, and areas along railroads and roadsides. Disturbed habitats are preferred. Annual Wormwood is still cultivated occasionally in gardens.
Faunal Associations: The wind-pollinated florets attract few insects, while the seeds are too small to be of much value to birds. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of Artemisia spp. (Wormwoods) because of the bitter compounds and mild to moderate toxicity of their foliage.
Photographic Location: Along a fence row in Urbana, Illinois. The flowerheads in the upper photograph are still in the bud stage.
Comments: Another common name for this plant is 'Sweet Annie.' Annual Wormwood is a non-woody summer annual that has hairless foliage with a sweet fruity fragrance. Other Artemisia spp. (Wormwoods) are often herbaceous biennials or woody perennials with hairy foliage (at least on the underside of their leaves). Many of these species have foliage with a smoky fragrance that resembles the seasoning 'Sage.' Annual Wormwood differs from a similar species, Artemisia biennis (Biennial Wormwood), by its double or triple pinnate leaves and spreading floral panicles. The latter species has simple pinnate leaves and a more spike-like inflorescence. The foliage of Annual Wormwood contains a chemical that is useful in the treatment of malaria.
The upper stems terminate in floral panicles up to 1½' long and half as much across. The panicles are abundantly branched, each branch consisting of a raceme of small drooping flowerheads. about 1-2 mm. across (1/8" or less). Each flowerhead is about 2 mm. across (1/8" or less); it has many tiny disk florets. At the base of each flowerhead, there are 6 oblong bracts that are dark green. The blooming period occurs from late summer into the fall. There is no floral scent, although the foliage has a sweet fruity fragrance. Pollination is by wind. Upon maturity, each floret is replaced by a single achene. These achenes are small enough to be carried aloft by the wind, even though they lack tufts of hair. The root system consists of a branching taproot. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and fertile loamy soil with high nitrogen content. This plant also adapts to gravelly and sandy soil.
Range & Habitat: Annual Wormwood is occasional throughout Illinois (see Distribution Map). It was introduced from Eurasia as a medicinal herb. Escaped plants usually don't persist in a given location. Habitats include woodland borders, low-lying areas along rivers and ponds, fields, vacant lots, edges of yards, fence rows, gardens, back alleys in older cities, and areas along railroads and roadsides. Disturbed habitats are preferred. Annual Wormwood is still cultivated occasionally in gardens.
Faunal Associations: The wind-pollinated florets attract few insects, while the seeds are too small to be of much value to birds. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of Artemisia spp. (Wormwoods) because of the bitter compounds and mild to moderate toxicity of their foliage.
Photographic Location: Along a fence row in Urbana, Illinois. The flowerheads in the upper photograph are still in the bud stage.
Comments: Another common name for this plant is 'Sweet Annie.' Annual Wormwood is a non-woody summer annual that has hairless foliage with a sweet fruity fragrance. Other Artemisia spp. (Wormwoods) are often herbaceous biennials or woody perennials with hairy foliage (at least on the underside of their leaves). Many of these species have foliage with a smoky fragrance that resembles the seasoning 'Sage.' Annual Wormwood differs from a similar species, Artemisia biennis (Biennial Wormwood), by its double or triple pinnate leaves and spreading floral panicles. The latter species has simple pinnate leaves and a more spike-like inflorescence. The foliage of Annual Wormwood contains a chemical that is useful in the treatment of malaria.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月16日
Fast-growing annual vines with yellow blooms up to 5 inches across, loofah plants (Luffa spp.) usually require a four-month growing season to produce mature gourds. Therefore, gardeners in the north may need to start them indoors about 4 to 6 weeks before the last spring frost. During the summer and early autumn, the heavy vines should be grown in humus-rich soil in full sun, preferably on a sturdy trellis or fence to keep their 1 to 2-foot gourds off the ground. Those fruits must be harvested before or just after the first autumn frost and are used both as bath sponges and dish scrubbers.
Pick and Peel Mature Sponges
If you live in an area with a long growing season, Jack Arnott of Cobb County Extension Service recommends that you allow your loofah gourds to dry on the vine until their skin is brown and brittle and you hear seeds rattle when you shake those gourds. Break open the skin at the blossom the end opposite the stem of the gourd to reach those seeds, if you wish to save them. It usually is easy to pick off the rest of the brittle skin with your fingers to reveal the sponge beneath. If you prefer, you can dunk the gourds in a bucket of water instead -- for any time period lasting from 5 minutes to several days -- and peel off their skins in wet strips.
Pick and Peel Immature Sponges
If your growing season isn't quite long enough, Jeanine Davis of North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension reports that you can harvest adequate sponges from gourds which have only partially yellowed, as long as their skins are beginning to slip. After you make an opening to save the seeds, grab the end of one of the fibers running the length of the gourd's ridges and pull on it to unzip the remaining skin.
Clean and Dry Sponges
Immediately plunge a less-than-mature sponge into a bucket of water to wash out any juices that remain due to its only half-dry condition. Although the sponge still will be white at that stage, it's a good idea to soak it in a bleach solution to eliminate fungi and bacteria. Mature sponges also should be immersed in bleach solution, of 4 tablespoons of bleach per 1 gallon of water, both to kill contaminants and to brighten their naturally off-white color.
After disinfecting the sponges, rinse them with clean water and spread them in the sun to dry. A porous surface works well for this purpose. You can turn screens into drying tables by laying them horizontally on top of sawhorses.
Pick and Peel Mature Sponges
If you live in an area with a long growing season, Jack Arnott of Cobb County Extension Service recommends that you allow your loofah gourds to dry on the vine until their skin is brown and brittle and you hear seeds rattle when you shake those gourds. Break open the skin at the blossom the end opposite the stem of the gourd to reach those seeds, if you wish to save them. It usually is easy to pick off the rest of the brittle skin with your fingers to reveal the sponge beneath. If you prefer, you can dunk the gourds in a bucket of water instead -- for any time period lasting from 5 minutes to several days -- and peel off their skins in wet strips.
Pick and Peel Immature Sponges
If your growing season isn't quite long enough, Jeanine Davis of North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension reports that you can harvest adequate sponges from gourds which have only partially yellowed, as long as their skins are beginning to slip. After you make an opening to save the seeds, grab the end of one of the fibers running the length of the gourd's ridges and pull on it to unzip the remaining skin.
Clean and Dry Sponges
Immediately plunge a less-than-mature sponge into a bucket of water to wash out any juices that remain due to its only half-dry condition. Although the sponge still will be white at that stage, it's a good idea to soak it in a bleach solution to eliminate fungi and bacteria. Mature sponges also should be immersed in bleach solution, of 4 tablespoons of bleach per 1 gallon of water, both to kill contaminants and to brighten their naturally off-white color.
After disinfecting the sponges, rinse them with clean water and spread them in the sun to dry. A porous surface works well for this purpose. You can turn screens into drying tables by laying them horizontally on top of sawhorses.
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