文章
Miss Chen
2022年01月27日
Canterbury bells is a biennial that has been popular for many years in European and North American landscapes. It is a medium-sized specimen with an upright plant form. Its best feature is the numerous, bell-shaped flowers it produces.
Botanical Name Campanula medium
Common Name Canterbury bells, cups and saucers
Plant Type Biennial
Mature Size 20 to 26 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide
Sun Exposure Full sun
to
partial shade
Soil Type Rich, well-drained, and kept evenly moist
Soil pH Neutral to slightly acidic or slightly alkaline
Bloom Time Early summer, on average
Flower Color Pink, white, purple, and blue
Hardiness Zones 5 to 8
Native Area Southern Europe
How to Grow Canterbury Bells
Indigenous to the Mediterranean climate of southern Europe, Canterbury bells do poorly in the humid climate of regions such as the southeastern United States but perform well in all but the coldest portions of the northern United States.
As a biennial, Canterbury bells takes two years to bloom, after which time it will die. The best way to grow a crop of them is to start them by seed. Here's how:
Sow the seed in a tray filled with potting soil in late winter.
Sprinkle a light covering of vermiculite over the seeds.
Using a spray bottle full of water, spray the vermiculite lightly to keep it evenly moist but not soggy.
Maintain a consistent temperature of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
When the seedlings emerge (three to four weeks), put the tray in a sunny window and keep the soil evenly moist.
In mid-spring, begin hardening off the seedlings.
Transplant the seedlings into the spot in the garden that you have selected for them once the danger of frost has passed.
You will have only leaves the first year. The next year, you will have flowers.
Light
Although it will survive in partial shade, Canterbury bells flower better when planted in full sun.
Soil
Mix compost into the ground where you plant your Canterbury bells. This will not only increase fertility but will also improve soil drainage.
Water
Water regularly during the growing season. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Fertilizer
Fertilize in late spring with a balanced fertilizer. Hose down the soil thoroughly afterward so that the fertilizer goes down to the roots.
Varieties of Canterbury Bells
Canterbury bells come in a number of cultivars and seed mixes, including:
Campanula medium var. calycanthema alba: 24 to 36 inches tall; white flowers
Campanula medium Bells of Holland: 18 inches tall; pink, purple, or white flowers
Campanula medium Champion Pink: 2 feet tall; pink flowers
Campanula medium Dwarf Bella Mix: 14 inches tall; blue, lilac, pink, or white flowers
Campanula medium Double Melton Mix: 3 feet tall; flowers dark pink, light pink, or purple; double blooms
Common Pests/Diseases
Common pests and diseases include aphids, mites, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, and rust. Given the height of the plant, it is helpful to provide support by staking it.
The Bellflower Family
Canterbury bells is a member of the bellflower family, so-called for the bell shape of the flowers. Members of the family typically have "bell" in their common names, such as harebell (Campanula rotundifolia).
The Campanula genus is diverse, having not only upright plants such as Canterbury bells but also plants that behave more like ground covers. An example of the latter is Dalmatian bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana). Such shorter plants are well suited for use in rock gardens.
North American gardeners interested in growing native plant gardens can use a Campanula native to their region. It is aptly named Campanula americana (the common name is tall bellflower). This herbaceous perennial reaches 3 to 6 feet in height and 1 to 2 feet in width and has blue flowers. Grow it in zones 4 to 7 in full sun to partial shade.
Landscape Uses for Canterbury Bells
Canterbury bells are not known to be poisonous, either to people or to pets. It does well in containers. These facts make it a great choice when you need a plant to grow in an urn or whiskey barrel on a deck or a patio where kids will be playing or where pets will be basking in the sun.
More commonly, Canterbury bells are grown in flower beds, where its medium height makes it just about right for the second row in a bed of three rows, staggered according to height. It is also wonderful massed together in border plantings. It is a classic cottage garden plant.
Botanical Name Campanula medium
Common Name Canterbury bells, cups and saucers
Plant Type Biennial
Mature Size 20 to 26 inches tall and 12 to 18 inches wide
Sun Exposure Full sun
to
partial shade
Soil Type Rich, well-drained, and kept evenly moist
Soil pH Neutral to slightly acidic or slightly alkaline
Bloom Time Early summer, on average
Flower Color Pink, white, purple, and blue
Hardiness Zones 5 to 8
Native Area Southern Europe
How to Grow Canterbury Bells
Indigenous to the Mediterranean climate of southern Europe, Canterbury bells do poorly in the humid climate of regions such as the southeastern United States but perform well in all but the coldest portions of the northern United States.
As a biennial, Canterbury bells takes two years to bloom, after which time it will die. The best way to grow a crop of them is to start them by seed. Here's how:
Sow the seed in a tray filled with potting soil in late winter.
Sprinkle a light covering of vermiculite over the seeds.
Using a spray bottle full of water, spray the vermiculite lightly to keep it evenly moist but not soggy.
Maintain a consistent temperature of 65 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
When the seedlings emerge (three to four weeks), put the tray in a sunny window and keep the soil evenly moist.
In mid-spring, begin hardening off the seedlings.
Transplant the seedlings into the spot in the garden that you have selected for them once the danger of frost has passed.
You will have only leaves the first year. The next year, you will have flowers.
Light
Although it will survive in partial shade, Canterbury bells flower better when planted in full sun.
Soil
Mix compost into the ground where you plant your Canterbury bells. This will not only increase fertility but will also improve soil drainage.
Water
Water regularly during the growing season. The goal is to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Fertilizer
Fertilize in late spring with a balanced fertilizer. Hose down the soil thoroughly afterward so that the fertilizer goes down to the roots.
Varieties of Canterbury Bells
Canterbury bells come in a number of cultivars and seed mixes, including:
Campanula medium var. calycanthema alba: 24 to 36 inches tall; white flowers
Campanula medium Bells of Holland: 18 inches tall; pink, purple, or white flowers
Campanula medium Champion Pink: 2 feet tall; pink flowers
Campanula medium Dwarf Bella Mix: 14 inches tall; blue, lilac, pink, or white flowers
Campanula medium Double Melton Mix: 3 feet tall; flowers dark pink, light pink, or purple; double blooms
Common Pests/Diseases
Common pests and diseases include aphids, mites, slugs, snails, powdery mildew, and rust. Given the height of the plant, it is helpful to provide support by staking it.
The Bellflower Family
Canterbury bells is a member of the bellflower family, so-called for the bell shape of the flowers. Members of the family typically have "bell" in their common names, such as harebell (Campanula rotundifolia).
The Campanula genus is diverse, having not only upright plants such as Canterbury bells but also plants that behave more like ground covers. An example of the latter is Dalmatian bellflower (Campanula portenschlagiana). Such shorter plants are well suited for use in rock gardens.
North American gardeners interested in growing native plant gardens can use a Campanula native to their region. It is aptly named Campanula americana (the common name is tall bellflower). This herbaceous perennial reaches 3 to 6 feet in height and 1 to 2 feet in width and has blue flowers. Grow it in zones 4 to 7 in full sun to partial shade.
Landscape Uses for Canterbury Bells
Canterbury bells are not known to be poisonous, either to people or to pets. It does well in containers. These facts make it a great choice when you need a plant to grow in an urn or whiskey barrel on a deck or a patio where kids will be playing or where pets will be basking in the sun.
More commonly, Canterbury bells are grown in flower beds, where its medium height makes it just about right for the second row in a bed of three rows, staggered according to height. It is also wonderful massed together in border plantings. It is a classic cottage garden plant.
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文章
Miss Chen
2021年12月19日
The Buttercup Winter Hazel is a medium-sized deciduous shrub in the witch hazel family that is a native of Japan. It grows no higher than six feet tall with a spreading form that fills out to a branchy width that is as wide as it is tall. The foliage is not particularly spectacular in the spring and summer, and can often be lost in these seasons, though it does provide an excellent nesting habitat for birds and small mammals. It is in the fall and especially the winter, as its common name suggests, that the species truly shines. In the fall the leaves turn bright fiery yellow that is much brighter in color than the muted yellow that will be on display later. These fall leaves shed to make way for ghostly gray branches that will. for a short time, exhibit no sign of life at all. That is when the show begins.
Depending on how mild a winter you experienced, new growth will start to develop along the branches of the Buttercup Winter Hazel in the form of reddish flower buds. Soon, these burst open and reveal a pendulous cluster of translucent buttercup-shaped and colored flowers. These pale-yellow little flowers will linger for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the weather. While in bloom, be sure to take advantage of their lovely fragrance as much as possible, too.
As the weather warms and other plants soon start to show signs of life, the Buttercup Winter Hazel will continue to be of interest. You will notice the plant’s blossoms wilting and falling off and new leaf buds forming. The spring beckoning flowers will make way for the leaf buds. Shoots that appear as green growth emerge, and the other plants around the Buttercup Winter Hazel enter the limelight to a much more crowded spring stage.
Botanical Name Corylopsis pauciflora
Common Name Buttercup Winter Hazel
Plant Type Shrub
Mature Size 4.00 to 6.00 ft. Tall 4.00 to 6.00 ft. Wide
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Type Rich, medium moisture, well-drained
Soil pH Acidic
Bloom Time Late Winter- Early Spring
Flower Color Pale Yellow
Hardiness Zone 6 to 8, USA
Native Range Japan, Taiwan
Winter Hazel Care
Picking the perfect place for the Buttercup Winter Hazel is important. Aesthetically, this is a gorgeous plant on its own, there is no doubt about it. Adding elements can and will highlight and add to its features by using a few things to enhance the beauty that is already there.
First, consider selecting a place to take advantage of its translucent flowers. With the sun shining through the blossoms, it will almost create a yellow stained-glass effect. For this, you want a low sun angle.
Second, consider color theory and negative space. Remember during the fall, winter, and early spring, you will have yellow branches. Consider backdropping the shrub with a conifer to give the colors a boost and to work the lighter colored bones of the Buttercup Winter Hazel against the darker conifer. Finally, think about putting some colorful winter blooming herbaceous flowers under the Buttercup Winter Hazel such as Hellebore, Snowdrops, or Winter Aconite.
When you have found a visually appealing place, it is time to get planting. It will be a good idea to test the soil before planting. You can add any amendments now if the soil is deficient or in need of some help.
Planting your Buttercup Winter Hazel will be done as usual for a shrubby tree. Dig a hole wider and deeper than the root ball. Add compost to the hole, then place the plant so that the root ball is even with the soil line. Fill in the hole with a mix of compost, the soil you removed, a few heaping handfuls of perlite, and then cover with mulch to the drip line. You will want to water your plant weekly, deeply, and thoroughly for the first growing season. Once your Buttercup Winter Hazel is established, enjoy the hope it instills every year with the beautiful smells it unleashes into the crisp winter air.v
Light
Planting the Buttercup Winter Hazel in full sun to part shade will help your plant thrive. More sun will increase the number of blooms on your shrub. As stated above, consider using the sun as a design element when placing the tree in your landscape.
Soil
The ideal soil for the Buttercup Winter Hazel is acidic, light, organically rich, and well-drained, not compact. It does not tolerate heavy, compact clay soil.
Water
Once established, watering the Buttercup Winter Hazel can be left to nature unless you live in an especially dry area, or you are experiencing a drought.
Temperature and Humidity
The Winter Hazel is hardy to Zones 6 to 8. Flower buds can be damaged from early spring frosts. The shrub is also susceptible to damage from high winds. Placing the shrub in a sheltered area can help it thrive.
Fertilizer
Yearly feeding can help with flower production. The Buttercup Winter Hazel enjoys acidic soils, so testing the soil pH yearly to see what fertilizer will be most beneficiall should be a priority. Prune the shrub immediately after flowering in the spring.
Depending on how mild a winter you experienced, new growth will start to develop along the branches of the Buttercup Winter Hazel in the form of reddish flower buds. Soon, these burst open and reveal a pendulous cluster of translucent buttercup-shaped and colored flowers. These pale-yellow little flowers will linger for a few weeks to a few months, depending on the weather. While in bloom, be sure to take advantage of their lovely fragrance as much as possible, too.
As the weather warms and other plants soon start to show signs of life, the Buttercup Winter Hazel will continue to be of interest. You will notice the plant’s blossoms wilting and falling off and new leaf buds forming. The spring beckoning flowers will make way for the leaf buds. Shoots that appear as green growth emerge, and the other plants around the Buttercup Winter Hazel enter the limelight to a much more crowded spring stage.
Botanical Name Corylopsis pauciflora
Common Name Buttercup Winter Hazel
Plant Type Shrub
Mature Size 4.00 to 6.00 ft. Tall 4.00 to 6.00 ft. Wide
Sun Exposure Full Sun to Part Shade
Soil Type Rich, medium moisture, well-drained
Soil pH Acidic
Bloom Time Late Winter- Early Spring
Flower Color Pale Yellow
Hardiness Zone 6 to 8, USA
Native Range Japan, Taiwan
Winter Hazel Care
Picking the perfect place for the Buttercup Winter Hazel is important. Aesthetically, this is a gorgeous plant on its own, there is no doubt about it. Adding elements can and will highlight and add to its features by using a few things to enhance the beauty that is already there.
First, consider selecting a place to take advantage of its translucent flowers. With the sun shining through the blossoms, it will almost create a yellow stained-glass effect. For this, you want a low sun angle.
Second, consider color theory and negative space. Remember during the fall, winter, and early spring, you will have yellow branches. Consider backdropping the shrub with a conifer to give the colors a boost and to work the lighter colored bones of the Buttercup Winter Hazel against the darker conifer. Finally, think about putting some colorful winter blooming herbaceous flowers under the Buttercup Winter Hazel such as Hellebore, Snowdrops, or Winter Aconite.
When you have found a visually appealing place, it is time to get planting. It will be a good idea to test the soil before planting. You can add any amendments now if the soil is deficient or in need of some help.
Planting your Buttercup Winter Hazel will be done as usual for a shrubby tree. Dig a hole wider and deeper than the root ball. Add compost to the hole, then place the plant so that the root ball is even with the soil line. Fill in the hole with a mix of compost, the soil you removed, a few heaping handfuls of perlite, and then cover with mulch to the drip line. You will want to water your plant weekly, deeply, and thoroughly for the first growing season. Once your Buttercup Winter Hazel is established, enjoy the hope it instills every year with the beautiful smells it unleashes into the crisp winter air.v
Light
Planting the Buttercup Winter Hazel in full sun to part shade will help your plant thrive. More sun will increase the number of blooms on your shrub. As stated above, consider using the sun as a design element when placing the tree in your landscape.
Soil
The ideal soil for the Buttercup Winter Hazel is acidic, light, organically rich, and well-drained, not compact. It does not tolerate heavy, compact clay soil.
Water
Once established, watering the Buttercup Winter Hazel can be left to nature unless you live in an especially dry area, or you are experiencing a drought.
Temperature and Humidity
The Winter Hazel is hardy to Zones 6 to 8. Flower buds can be damaged from early spring frosts. The shrub is also susceptible to damage from high winds. Placing the shrub in a sheltered area can help it thrive.
Fertilizer
Yearly feeding can help with flower production. The Buttercup Winter Hazel enjoys acidic soils, so testing the soil pH yearly to see what fertilizer will be most beneficiall should be a priority. Prune the shrub immediately after flowering in the spring.
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0
文章
Miss Chen
2021年11月30日
Broom plants are small- to medium-sized shrubs with evergreen or deciduous foliage. Leaves are green and small, usually lanceolate. The two main species that share the common name Broom are Cytisus and Genista. Both look very similar. The main difference is Genistas are more tolerant of lime in water and soil. From the Fabaceae (legume) or Leguminosae (pea) family, broom plants bear pea-like flowers in shades of yellow as well as many others. It grows quickly in a lax, bushy habit. One quite common sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus syn. Genista racemosa) is often found along highways on the West Coast of the United States.
Some gardeners regard the broom plant to be an invasive weed, while others favor this attractive fast-spreading plant for its airy feel and scented summer blossoms, which attract many pollinators.
Botanical Name Cytisus spp. and Genista spp.
Common Names Broom, Broom Plant, Sweet Broom
Plant Type Evergreen shrub
Mature Size 6-8 ft. tall, 5-6 ft. wide
Sun Exposure Full
Soil Type Well-drained, loam, poor
Soil pH Acidic, neutral, alkaline
Bloom Time Late spring, summer
Flower Color Yellow, cream, crimson, brown-red, orange, rose, mauve, lavender
Hardiness Zones 5-8 (USDA)
Native Area Europe
Toxicity Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans
Broom Plant Care
Broom plants can be used in a variety of areas in your landscape thanks to their varying heights and colorful displays. For example, brooms will display pops of color in the spring and summer which can contrast nicely when planted in front of other green shrubs. Or, use taller varieties of broom plants as a hedge or border. The dwarf varieties of brooms look beautifully nestled as mass plantings in a rock garden.
v
Broom plants like workable, well-draining soil that's prepared in an open, sunny locations. The plants will tolerate wind, poor soil, and even rocks. This wild shrub will thrive throughout drought and cold for years to come.
Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.v
Some gardeners regard the broom plant to be an invasive weed, while others favor this attractive fast-spreading plant for its airy feel and scented summer blossoms, which attract many pollinators.
Botanical Name Cytisus spp. and Genista spp.
Common Names Broom, Broom Plant, Sweet Broom
Plant Type Evergreen shrub
Mature Size 6-8 ft. tall, 5-6 ft. wide
Sun Exposure Full
Soil Type Well-drained, loam, poor
Soil pH Acidic, neutral, alkaline
Bloom Time Late spring, summer
Flower Color Yellow, cream, crimson, brown-red, orange, rose, mauve, lavender
Hardiness Zones 5-8 (USDA)
Native Area Europe
Toxicity Toxic to cats, dogs, and humans
Broom Plant Care
Broom plants can be used in a variety of areas in your landscape thanks to their varying heights and colorful displays. For example, brooms will display pops of color in the spring and summer which can contrast nicely when planted in front of other green shrubs. Or, use taller varieties of broom plants as a hedge or border. The dwarf varieties of brooms look beautifully nestled as mass plantings in a rock garden.
v
Broom plants like workable, well-draining soil that's prepared in an open, sunny locations. The plants will tolerate wind, poor soil, and even rocks. This wild shrub will thrive throughout drought and cold for years to come.
Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.Light
Brooms grow best in an open area with full sun, though they will tolerate some shade. Follow the light and location directions for the specific variety. Overall, too much shade tends to make broom plants leggy with fewer blooms.
Soil
Establish in well-drained loam or poor soil (clay, sand, or loam). Acidic soil is best. Cytisus dislikes alkaline/chalky soils and Genista tolerates lime more easily. Sweet broom can thrive in poor soil, through drought and neglect, and can even fix the nitrogen in the soil with fibrous, fast-growing stabilizing roots.
Mulch alkaline soil in the spring with ericaceous compost.
Water
Water regularly for the first few months if there is not enough rainfall to keep the soil moist. Maintain moisture in its first year to establish roots. Give an inch of water each week during its first summer and during heat or drought. Let the soil dry out between waterings.
Sweet broom benefits from habitual watering if the location is dry and the soil is poor.
Temperature and Humidity
Sweet broom performs best in conditions that would cause many other flowering shrubs to fail. It will bloom as early as late winter and through the early spring months in the cool temperatures of USDA Zones 8-10. Temperatures between 35 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit during the autumn and winter months encourage blooming.
Apply a 2-inch layer of lightweight shredded bark mulch to keep the roots cool and the soil moist. This will also provide a layer of insulation against the hot summer sun. Make sure the mulch doesn't touch the base.
Is Broom Plant Toxic?
These plants can be problematic to pets such as dogs, cats, and horses. Ingesting large quantities could impact the heart or central nervous system of a pet because of the toxic alkaloids they contain. The alkaloids, cytisine and sparteine, are closely related to nicotine.
Symptoms of Poisoning
Symptoms of cytisine poisoning include:
Vomiting
Convulsions
Chest pain
Potential death
Sparteine is a class 1a antiarrhythmic agent, acting as a sodium channel blocker and interfering with the natural rhythm of the heart. Symptoms of sparteine poisoning include:
Abdominal discomfort
Diarrhea
Incoordination
Lethargy
Loss of appetite
Nausea
Numbness
Weakness
Pregnant women should avoid consuming this plant because it may also induce contractions.
Broom Plant Varieties
Cytisus Plant Varieties
Cytisus 'Ardoinii' grows a humble 5 inches tall. This dwarf, prostrate alpine shrub plentifully blooms in yellow every spring.
Cytisus x kewensis reaches 2 feet tall and is ideal for rock gardens. This wide, low-growing shrub displays pale yellow to creamy white flowers in spring.
Cytisus ‘Lena’ is another dwarf variety and grows 4 feet tall. Foliage is deep green and flowers are ruby red and yellow through spring and early summer. This compact variety is sometimes sold as C. 'Volcano.'
Cytisus x praecox (Warminster Broom) grows to 5 feet tall offering pale yellow flowers in early May.
Cytisus 'Burkwoodii' reaches between 5 and 7 feet tall. It has crimson flowers in late spring.
Cytisus scoparius (common broom) puts on a long show of yellow flowers on its 5-foot reach from May to June. Modern hybrids offer a wide range of colors. 'Andreanus' has deep brown-red and yellow flowers. 'Cornish Cream' has ivory cream and yellow flowers. 'Goldfinch' is crimson and yellow with pink and yellow wings. 'Killiney Red' is a smaller, compact variety with red blooms.
Cytisus racemosus nana (dwarf yellow broom) has so many yellow flowers from spring to summer they nearly cover the whole plant. Good for creating a hedge in dry conditions, this 10-foot plant is also known as hedge broom. The dwarf variety reaches about 5 feet tall and also grows well in containers.
Cytisus 'Battandieri' grows 15 feet tall. Also known as pineapple broom or Moroccan broom, its bright yellow flowers produce a distinct pineapple scent from May to June. It is not particularly broom-shaped, formed more like a medium woody shrub that can be trained as a small tree. Protect from severe winter conditions by growing it against a southeast- or west-facing wall. Give it lots of sunshine.
Genista Plant Varieties
Genista lydia (Lydian broom) grows 2 feet tall and spreads 3 feet. Its green arching stems are covered with golden yellow flowers in May and June.
Genista hispanica (Spanish gorse) reaches 3 feet tall and spreads at least 7 feet wide. Golden flowers cover this dense, spiny shrub in June and July.
Genista aetnensis (Mount Etna broom) grows 10 feet tall and spreads 8 feet wide with linear leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in July.
Pruning
This low-maintenance plant usually does well without pruning, but because many brooms have relatively short lives, pruning can extend their line span. There are slight differences in pruning Cytisus and Genistas.
Pruning Cytisus
Prune Cytisus varieties every year after they have stopped flowering.
When pruning sweet broom (Cytisus racemosus), timing is of the essence. Flowers come on old wood and pruning at the wrong time could prevent or delay blooming. Prune in late spring or summer after bloom season is over. Do not prune in autumn or winter. Give the plant enough time to produce mature wood so that it will flower in spring again. Use very sharp, sterilized pruning shears to cut the plant back by a third. Cut each time at a 45-degree angle. Cutting straight across will cause the stem to hold rainwater and rot.
Consider pineapple broom (Cytisus battandieri) as more of a woody shrub by removing any dead or damaged shoots after it stops flowering.
Pruning Genistas
Pruning of Genistas can be more complicated. For example:
Genista aetnensis can be cut back quite a few times each season to encourage bushy growth.
Genista hispanica can be lightly sheared after it is finished flowering.
Genista lydia does not need to be pruned at all.
Propagating Broom Plant
Be certain to transplant cuttings in the spring when they reach a few inches tall because their root systems run deep and aren't always happy to be disturbed.
Clip 3-inch cuttings below a leaf node that are especially ripe and healthy off of semi-mature wood in July or August; don't take cuttings any earlier or they may not root.
Dip the bottom in rooting hormone.
Place in flats filled with moist, well-draining potting compost.
Keep moist while rooting the cuttings slowly in a cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long as the roots will grow deep and the plant will resent the transplant.
How to Grow Broom Plant From Seed
Harvest and sow seeds when the pods turn black which means they're ripe. Note that germination may not happen with every fussy broom plant seed.
Soak seeds in hot water for about 24 hours before sowing.
Use pots or flats filled with sandy soil.
Germinate at 65 degrees Fahrenheit (indoors in March or outdoors in April depending on the climate).
Cover early seeds or seedlings with a fabric or cold frame.
Plant in the spring, but don't wait too long because the roots will grow long and the plant does not do well when transplanted at a late stage.
Common Pests & Diseases
Webworms are the most common issue to look out for. They tend to overwinter in old debris, so rake the area around the plant completely clean. Broom plants are also susceptible to gall mites, an attack caused by fungus dieback; it will result in stunted growth, which is sometimes desired where the plant is considered invasive.v
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Miss Chen
2021年11月26日
The bridal wreath spirea (Spirae aprunifolia) is a medium-sized deciduous shrub with an upright arching habit, featuring thick sprays of white double flowers that create a focal point in the landscape. Fully hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-9, this is an easy-to-grow shrub that, once established, requires little care.
The Spiraea genus is found within the Rosaceae family of plants, and it bears some similarity to rose bushes, especially the shape of the leaves and the spiny stems. The species name, prunifolia, indicates that the leaves are similar to those of Prunus, the group that contains many of the familiar stone fruits such as cherries, plums, and peaches.
In spring blooming season, bridal wreath spireas create a cascading waterfall of white, with clusters of small white flowers that bloom all the way down the arching branches. Each leaf is 1- to 3-inches long with an ovate or elliptical shape. The spring flower display is followed by another show in the fall when the leaves turn to hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Spirea is a fast-growing shrub, and within a single growing season, it usually achieves full size. Like most shrubs, bridal wreath spirea is best planted early in the growing season, which will allow the shrub's root system plenty of time to become established before winter. If you must plant in the fall (this sometimes is when nurseries are discounting available stock), try to do it with enough time so the shrub's roots can settle in and begin growing before winter weather sets in.
Botanical Name Spiraea prunifolia
Common Name Spirea, bridal wreath, bridal veil spirea
Plant Type Deciduous shrub
Mature Size 4-8 ft. tall and wide
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil Type Any well-draining soil
Soil pH 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Bloom Time Early spring
Flower Color White
Hardiness Zones 5-9, (USDA)
Native Area China, Korea, and Taiwan
Bridal Wreath Spirea Care
This shrub is very easy to grow in any average soil in a full sun location. It will tolerate some shade, and once established, it has a decent tolerance for occasional drought. Like most shrubs, it should be planted in a carefully prepared hole, at the same depth it was growing in its nursery pot. If planting in a row or mass, space the plant at least 3-feet apart, or 4- to 6-feet apart for a looser mass.
Bridal wreath spirea makes a great specimen plant, or it can be planted as a hedge or in masses as a screening plant. It also works well in foundation plantings. It is excellent when planted in the sunny margins abutting woodland areas, similar to the way azaleas are often used.
The bridal wreath spirea attracts butterflies, but its prickly stems repel grazing by deer. Make sure to plant this shrub where it will not scratch human passers-by—unless you are planting it to discourage intruders.
There are no serious pest or disease problems for the bridal wreath spirea, but they can be susceptible to many of the diseases and insects that attack other members of the rose family. This includes leaf spot, fire blight, powdery mildew, root rot, aphids, leaf roller, and scale.
Some varieties of spirea can escape gardens and become invasive in parts of the U.S., so before planting, check with your local extension office agent.1
Learn About Gold Mound Spirea
Light
This shrub will do best in a spot in your garden that receives full sun; it will tolerate part shade, though with slightly reduced flowering. When planting young bridal wreath spirea shrubs, make sure to provide plenty of room between them: They will grow and can block each other's light if planted too close together.
Soil
This plant is not picky about the soil it's planted in, and can thrive in clay, loam, and even acidic soils. Its biggest need is soil that's well-draining, so the roots never sit in water.
Water
Bridal wreath spirea prefers to grow in well-drained moist soil, though it is able to withstand some periods of drought. Water the plants once a week during the summer whenever rainfall is less than 1 inch. Keep the plants well-watered as they are becoming established.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant is quite hardy, surviving both cold winter and hot summer temperatures in its defined range. It thrives in any climate conditions within its hardiness zones (5-9).
Fertilizer
Every spring, add a 2-inch layer of compost over the soil under the shrub. This is usually sufficient to feed the plant, and it will also help to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Bridal Wreath Spirea Varieties
‘Fire Light’ has pink flowers that show in summer, and fiery red fall color.
‘Anthony Waterer’ boasts carmine-red flowers and purple fall foliage.
‘Tor’ features tiny white flowers and dark green oval leaves that turn orange, red, and purple in fall.
‘Snowmound’ offers white flowers, attractive arching stems, and dark, blue-green foliage.
Pruning
This plant tends to spread through suckering, so ground suckers will need to be trimmed off if you want to keep the shrubs confined.
If desired, the shrubs can be pruned for shape or size immediately after the spring flowering period. Always use a clean, sharp gardening shear. A good pruning routine is to remove all dead wood, as well as some of the oldest stems all the way to ground level. This will open up the center of the shrub to sunlight, which will reinvigorate it. Tips of branches can also be trimmed to control the size of the shrub.
Propagating Bridal Wreath Spirea
The best way to propagate bridal wreath spirea shrubs is by rooting softwood cuttings. To do so, cut segments of flexible stem tips 6- to 8-inches long. Remove the bottom leaves from these trimmed segments. Dip the cut end into powdered rooting hormone.
Fill a 6-inch pot with moist potting mix, then plant four or five prepared stems around the inner edge of the pot, embedding the exposed nodes into the potting mix. Cover the pot with a large plastic bag and seal it. Place the pot in a dappled shade location and allow the cuttings to root over the next few weeks. Check periodically to make sure the potting mix remains moist.
After about four weeks, you should see new, green growth on the stems, indicating that roots are forming. At this point, repot the cuttings into their own individual containers, then tuck the pots into a sheltered location and allow them to continue growing until they go dormant in winter. The next spring, transplant the rooted cuttings into the garden.
The Spiraea genus is found within the Rosaceae family of plants, and it bears some similarity to rose bushes, especially the shape of the leaves and the spiny stems. The species name, prunifolia, indicates that the leaves are similar to those of Prunus, the group that contains many of the familiar stone fruits such as cherries, plums, and peaches.
In spring blooming season, bridal wreath spireas create a cascading waterfall of white, with clusters of small white flowers that bloom all the way down the arching branches. Each leaf is 1- to 3-inches long with an ovate or elliptical shape. The spring flower display is followed by another show in the fall when the leaves turn to hues of red, orange, and yellow.
Spirea is a fast-growing shrub, and within a single growing season, it usually achieves full size. Like most shrubs, bridal wreath spirea is best planted early in the growing season, which will allow the shrub's root system plenty of time to become established before winter. If you must plant in the fall (this sometimes is when nurseries are discounting available stock), try to do it with enough time so the shrub's roots can settle in and begin growing before winter weather sets in.
Botanical Name Spiraea prunifolia
Common Name Spirea, bridal wreath, bridal veil spirea
Plant Type Deciduous shrub
Mature Size 4-8 ft. tall and wide
Sun Exposure Full sun
Soil Type Any well-draining soil
Soil pH 6.0-7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Bloom Time Early spring
Flower Color White
Hardiness Zones 5-9, (USDA)
Native Area China, Korea, and Taiwan
Bridal Wreath Spirea Care
This shrub is very easy to grow in any average soil in a full sun location. It will tolerate some shade, and once established, it has a decent tolerance for occasional drought. Like most shrubs, it should be planted in a carefully prepared hole, at the same depth it was growing in its nursery pot. If planting in a row or mass, space the plant at least 3-feet apart, or 4- to 6-feet apart for a looser mass.
Bridal wreath spirea makes a great specimen plant, or it can be planted as a hedge or in masses as a screening plant. It also works well in foundation plantings. It is excellent when planted in the sunny margins abutting woodland areas, similar to the way azaleas are often used.
The bridal wreath spirea attracts butterflies, but its prickly stems repel grazing by deer. Make sure to plant this shrub where it will not scratch human passers-by—unless you are planting it to discourage intruders.
There are no serious pest or disease problems for the bridal wreath spirea, but they can be susceptible to many of the diseases and insects that attack other members of the rose family. This includes leaf spot, fire blight, powdery mildew, root rot, aphids, leaf roller, and scale.
Some varieties of spirea can escape gardens and become invasive in parts of the U.S., so before planting, check with your local extension office agent.1
Learn About Gold Mound Spirea
Light
This shrub will do best in a spot in your garden that receives full sun; it will tolerate part shade, though with slightly reduced flowering. When planting young bridal wreath spirea shrubs, make sure to provide plenty of room between them: They will grow and can block each other's light if planted too close together.
Soil
This plant is not picky about the soil it's planted in, and can thrive in clay, loam, and even acidic soils. Its biggest need is soil that's well-draining, so the roots never sit in water.
Water
Bridal wreath spirea prefers to grow in well-drained moist soil, though it is able to withstand some periods of drought. Water the plants once a week during the summer whenever rainfall is less than 1 inch. Keep the plants well-watered as they are becoming established.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant is quite hardy, surviving both cold winter and hot summer temperatures in its defined range. It thrives in any climate conditions within its hardiness zones (5-9).
Fertilizer
Every spring, add a 2-inch layer of compost over the soil under the shrub. This is usually sufficient to feed the plant, and it will also help to retain moisture and prevent weeds.
Bridal Wreath Spirea Varieties
‘Fire Light’ has pink flowers that show in summer, and fiery red fall color.
‘Anthony Waterer’ boasts carmine-red flowers and purple fall foliage.
‘Tor’ features tiny white flowers and dark green oval leaves that turn orange, red, and purple in fall.
‘Snowmound’ offers white flowers, attractive arching stems, and dark, blue-green foliage.
Pruning
This plant tends to spread through suckering, so ground suckers will need to be trimmed off if you want to keep the shrubs confined.
If desired, the shrubs can be pruned for shape or size immediately after the spring flowering period. Always use a clean, sharp gardening shear. A good pruning routine is to remove all dead wood, as well as some of the oldest stems all the way to ground level. This will open up the center of the shrub to sunlight, which will reinvigorate it. Tips of branches can also be trimmed to control the size of the shrub.
Propagating Bridal Wreath Spirea
The best way to propagate bridal wreath spirea shrubs is by rooting softwood cuttings. To do so, cut segments of flexible stem tips 6- to 8-inches long. Remove the bottom leaves from these trimmed segments. Dip the cut end into powdered rooting hormone.
Fill a 6-inch pot with moist potting mix, then plant four or five prepared stems around the inner edge of the pot, embedding the exposed nodes into the potting mix. Cover the pot with a large plastic bag and seal it. Place the pot in a dappled shade location and allow the cuttings to root over the next few weeks. Check periodically to make sure the potting mix remains moist.
After about four weeks, you should see new, green growth on the stems, indicating that roots are forming. At this point, repot the cuttings into their own individual containers, then tuck the pots into a sheltered location and allow them to continue growing until they go dormant in winter. The next spring, transplant the rooted cuttings into the garden.
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ritau
2020年07月27日
1. Obtain coffee grounds. Growing mushrooms from coffee grounds is a fun project which helps to use up coffee grounds that would otherwise go to waste. Coffee grounds are a fantastic growing medium for mushrooms (oyster mushrooms in particular) as they are already sterilized thanks to the coffee brewing process and are full of nutrients.
For 500 g (17.6 oz) of mushroom spawn, you will need 2.5 kg (88 oz) of fresh coffee grounds. The best way to get this amount of fresh coffee grounds (brewed that day) is to go to a cafe and ask nicely. They're usually more than happy to give it away.
2. Find a container for the mushrooms. The best thing to use is a filter patch grow bag, which can usually be purchased along with the mushroom spawn. Otherwise you can use a large, sealable freezer bag or a sterilized milk carton or ice cream tub, with four small holes poked into the sides.
3. Transfer the spawn into the container. Wash your hands thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap, then mix the mushroom spawn into the coffee grounds, breaking them up with your hands to ensure that they are evenly distributed. Place the inoculated coffee grinds into the plastic bag or container and seal tightly.
4. Put the mushrooms in the right environment. Place the bag or container in a warm, dark location, somewhere between 64 and 77°F (18 to 25°C), like in an airing cupboard or under the sink. Leave it here for two to four weeks or until it turns entirely white — this due to the mycelia colonizing the coffee grinds.
-Again, cut out any dark spots of green or brown that develop on the colonizing substrate, as this can make you sick.
5. Relocate the mushrooms. Once the bag or container's contents have turned completely white, move it to a bright area (but not into direct sunlight) and cut a 2" by 2" hole at the top. Mist the contents of the container with water twice daily to prevent it from drying out — the mushrooms won't grow in too-dry conditions.
6. Harvest the mushrooms. Over the next five to seven days, tiny mushrooms will begin to sprout. Continue to mist them with water and they should double in size each day. When the cups of the mushrooms have started to turn slightly upwards, they are ready to harvest.
When the mushrooms have stopped sprouting, plant the coffee grinds outdoors under bark mulch or compost and new mushrooms may develop, depending on the weather.
For 500 g (17.6 oz) of mushroom spawn, you will need 2.5 kg (88 oz) of fresh coffee grounds. The best way to get this amount of fresh coffee grounds (brewed that day) is to go to a cafe and ask nicely. They're usually more than happy to give it away.
2. Find a container for the mushrooms. The best thing to use is a filter patch grow bag, which can usually be purchased along with the mushroom spawn. Otherwise you can use a large, sealable freezer bag or a sterilized milk carton or ice cream tub, with four small holes poked into the sides.
3. Transfer the spawn into the container. Wash your hands thoroughly with anti-bacterial soap, then mix the mushroom spawn into the coffee grounds, breaking them up with your hands to ensure that they are evenly distributed. Place the inoculated coffee grinds into the plastic bag or container and seal tightly.
4. Put the mushrooms in the right environment. Place the bag or container in a warm, dark location, somewhere between 64 and 77°F (18 to 25°C), like in an airing cupboard or under the sink. Leave it here for two to four weeks or until it turns entirely white — this due to the mycelia colonizing the coffee grinds.
-Again, cut out any dark spots of green or brown that develop on the colonizing substrate, as this can make you sick.
5. Relocate the mushrooms. Once the bag or container's contents have turned completely white, move it to a bright area (but not into direct sunlight) and cut a 2" by 2" hole at the top. Mist the contents of the container with water twice daily to prevent it from drying out — the mushrooms won't grow in too-dry conditions.
6. Harvest the mushrooms. Over the next five to seven days, tiny mushrooms will begin to sprout. Continue to mist them with water and they should double in size each day. When the cups of the mushrooms have started to turn slightly upwards, they are ready to harvest.
When the mushrooms have stopped sprouting, plant the coffee grinds outdoors under bark mulch or compost and new mushrooms may develop, depending on the weather.
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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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Miss Chen
2018年07月09日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant is 6-20" tall, consisting of a dense tuft of basal leaves from tightly clustered bulbs. The basal leaves are erect, ascending, or arching-spreading; they are medium green, filiform, terete, hollow, glabrous, and sometimes glaucous. One or more flowering stalks develop from within the basal leaves. These stalks are more stiffly erect than the leaves; they are 8-20" long, medium green, filiform, terete, and glabrous. Usually, the stalks are leafless, although on rare occasions 1-2 cauline leaves may develop from an individual stalk. At the apex of each stalk, there is a crowded umbel of 30-50 flowers that spans about 1–1½" across; this umbel is held erect and it is globoid to subgloboid (globoid, but slightly flattened) in shape. Initially, the umbel is enclosed by a pair of membranous spathes with a sheath-like appearance, but the latter shrivel away when the flowers begin to bloom. Each flower is up to 2/3" (15 mm.) long, consisting of 6 pink or lavender tepals, 6 stamens, and a pistil with a single white style. The filaments of the stamens are white, while their anthers are variably colored. The tepals are narrowly elliptic in shape and strongly ascending; they often have fine lines of purple where their midribs occur. The style has a knobby tip. At the bases of these flowers, there are short pedicels up to ¼" long; these pedicels are largely hidden by the flowers when the latter are in bloom. Both the foliage and flowers have a mild onion-like aroma. The blooming period occurs from late spring to early summer, lasting about 3-4 weeks. Afterwards, individual flowers are replaced by 3-valved seed capsules (3-4 mm. across) that split open to release their seeds. These seeds are 2–2.5 mm. (less than 1/8") in length with a 3-angled ellipsoid shape; 2 sides of each seed are flat, while the remaining side is curved. In addition, the seeds are black, somewhat wrinkled, and glabrous. The root system consists of slender bulbs that are ellipsoid in shape and up to ¾" (20 mm.) in length; these bulbs have fibrous roots underneath. The outermost layers of the bulbs are brown and membranous. Clonal offshoots are created by the formation of new bulbs in the ground. This plant also reproduces by reseeding itself. The leaves die down during the winter.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil. Chives is winter-hardy and easy to cultivate.
Range & Habitat: As a wild plant, Chives has naturalized in only a few counties of Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is uncommon. While it is native to boreal areas of both Eurasia and North America, Chives was introduced into Illinois as a culinary herb. It is still commonly cultivated in gardens, from where this plant occasionally escapes. Habitats include grassy areas along railroads and roadsides, areas that are adjacent to gardens, weedy meadows, banks of streams, and waste areas. Habitats with a history of disturbance are preferred. Chives is less aggressive than either Allium vineale (Field Garlic) and Allium canadense (Wild Garlic).
Faunal Association: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract small bees and flower flies primarily. Some insect species are known to feed destructively on Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) and other Allium spp. Insects that feed on the foliage and/or flowers include Thrips tabaci (Onion Thrips), Myzus ascalonicus (Shallot Aphid), Neotoxoptera formosa (Onion Aphid), Lindbergocapsus allii (Onion Plant Bug), and Lindbergocapsus ainsliei; see Marshall (2006), Blackman & Eastop (2013), Knight (1941), and Henry (1982). The larvae of several insects also feed on the bulbs of these plants, including Strigoderma arbicola (False Japanese Beetle), Delia antiqua (Onion Maggot), Tritoxa flexa (Black Onion Fly), Eumerus strigatus (Onion Bulb Fly), and Eumerus tuberculatus (Lesser Onion Bulb Fly). Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage of Chives and other Allium spp., although it is occasionally consumed by White-tailed Deer and domesticated cattle (Sotala & Kirkpatrick, 1973; Georgia, 1913), especially during the spring when little else is available. When dairy cattle consume these plants, this taints the flavor of milk that they produce.
Photographic Location: Along a sidewalk at the webmaster's apartment complex. This plant was established from seed that had blown across the sidewalk from a neighboring pot of herbs.
Comments: The chopped leaves of Chives has a mild onion flavor that can be used to season various dishes and sauces, including salads and sour cream. The umbels of flowers are also edible if they are picked while they are still young; like the leaves, they have an onion flavor. This plant is rich a source of antioxidants, especially the leaves (Stajner et al., 2004). It also contains significant amounts of Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), folic acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, protein, and other nutrients. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) is fairly easy to distinguish from other Allium spp. cause of its dense umbels of flowers and dense tufts of very narrow leaves. The umbels of other Allium spp. are typically more loose and there are conspicuous gaps between their flowers. The basal leaves of other Allium spp. are either solid and flattened or they are more terete and hollow. If they are the latter, then they are somewhat broader in circumference at their bases than the leaves of chives. Chives doesn't produce aerial bulblets, whereas Allium vineale (Field Garlic), Allium canadense (Wild Garlic), and some cultivated Allium spp. almost always do. Two varieties of Chives are sometimes described: the typical variety and var. sibiricum. The latter tends to be a taller and more robust plant, otherwise these two varieties are very similar to each other and they have a tendency to intergrade.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, moist to mesic conditions, and a fertile loamy soil. Chives is winter-hardy and easy to cultivate.
Range & Habitat: As a wild plant, Chives has naturalized in only a few counties of Illinois (see Distribution Map), where it is uncommon. While it is native to boreal areas of both Eurasia and North America, Chives was introduced into Illinois as a culinary herb. It is still commonly cultivated in gardens, from where this plant occasionally escapes. Habitats include grassy areas along railroads and roadsides, areas that are adjacent to gardens, weedy meadows, banks of streams, and waste areas. Habitats with a history of disturbance are preferred. Chives is less aggressive than either Allium vineale (Field Garlic) and Allium canadense (Wild Garlic).
Faunal Association: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract small bees and flower flies primarily. Some insect species are known to feed destructively on Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) and other Allium spp. Insects that feed on the foliage and/or flowers include Thrips tabaci (Onion Thrips), Myzus ascalonicus (Shallot Aphid), Neotoxoptera formosa (Onion Aphid), Lindbergocapsus allii (Onion Plant Bug), and Lindbergocapsus ainsliei; see Marshall (2006), Blackman & Eastop (2013), Knight (1941), and Henry (1982). The larvae of several insects also feed on the bulbs of these plants, including Strigoderma arbicola (False Japanese Beetle), Delia antiqua (Onion Maggot), Tritoxa flexa (Black Onion Fly), Eumerus strigatus (Onion Bulb Fly), and Eumerus tuberculatus (Lesser Onion Bulb Fly). Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage of Chives and other Allium spp., although it is occasionally consumed by White-tailed Deer and domesticated cattle (Sotala & Kirkpatrick, 1973; Georgia, 1913), especially during the spring when little else is available. When dairy cattle consume these plants, this taints the flavor of milk that they produce.
Photographic Location: Along a sidewalk at the webmaster's apartment complex. This plant was established from seed that had blown across the sidewalk from a neighboring pot of herbs.
Comments: The chopped leaves of Chives has a mild onion flavor that can be used to season various dishes and sauces, including salads and sour cream. The umbels of flowers are also edible if they are picked while they are still young; like the leaves, they have an onion flavor. This plant is rich a source of antioxidants, especially the leaves (Stajner et al., 2004). It also contains significant amounts of Vitamin A (as beta-carotene), folic acid, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, protein, and other nutrients. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum) is fairly easy to distinguish from other Allium spp. cause of its dense umbels of flowers and dense tufts of very narrow leaves. The umbels of other Allium spp. are typically more loose and there are conspicuous gaps between their flowers. The basal leaves of other Allium spp. are either solid and flattened or they are more terete and hollow. If they are the latter, then they are somewhat broader in circumference at their bases than the leaves of chives. Chives doesn't produce aerial bulblets, whereas Allium vineale (Field Garlic), Allium canadense (Wild Garlic), and some cultivated Allium spp. almost always do. Two varieties of Chives are sometimes described: the typical variety and var. sibiricum. The latter tends to be a taller and more robust plant, otherwise these two varieties are very similar to each other and they have a tendency to intergrade.
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文章
Miss Chen
2018年07月03日
Description: This plant is a summer annual about ½–2' tall that is either unbranched or occasionally branched. The stems are light to medium green, terete, and moderately covered with a combination of spreading hairs, curved hairs, and short pubescence. The alternate leaves are more closely spaced together toward the apex of the plant rather than the bottom, providing it with a flat-topped appearance. The leaf blades are up to 3" long and 1" across; they are medium green, lanceolate, and crenate with widely spaced blunt teeth to nearly smooth. The upper surfaces of the blades are sparsely canescent, sparsely covered with appressed hairs, or hairless. The slender petioles are up to 1" long; they are about one-third the length of their blades and usually short-pubescent.
Virginia Mercury is monoecious, bearing both staminate (male) and pistillate (female) flowers on the same plant. Both male and female flowers develop within the same foliaceous bracts from the axils of the leaves. These bracts are sessile (or nearly so), up to ½" tall, and a little more across; they are either open or loosely folded around the flowers. Individual bracts are medium green, more or less hairy, palmately lobed (10-15 lobes), and ciliate along their margins. Individual lobes are linear-lanceolate. Within each bract, a spike of staminate flowers develops. At maturity, each spike is up to ¾" long. Each staminate flower is less than 1/8" (3 mm.) across, consisting of a 4-lobed calyx, no petals, and several stamens. The staminate flowers are densely packed along the upper half of each spike. Within the same bract, there are 1-3 sessile pistillate flowers that are largely hidden from view. Each pistillate flower is about ¼" across, consisting of insignificant sepals, no petals, and a 3-valved globoid ovary with short divided styles. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall and lasts about 2-3 months. Only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Cross-pollination is by wind. Each pistillate flower matures into a 3-celled seed capsule; each cell of the capsule contains a single ovoid-oblongoid seed about 1-2 mm. long. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, mesic conditions, and a fertile loam, although other soil types are tolerated. Most growth and development occurs during the summer and early fall.
Range & Habitat: The native Virginia Mercury is occasional to locally common in the southern half of Illinois, becoming uncommon in the northern half of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include disturbed open woodlands, rocky woodlands, thinly wooded bluffs, woodland borders, thickets, disturbed areas of prairies and weedy meadows, partially-shaded gravelly seeps, cropland and abandoned fields, areas along railroads and roadsides, flower gardens underneath trees, and areas adjacent to the foundations of buildings. This plant has low fidelity to any particular habitat.
Faunal Associations: The flea beetles Hornaltica bicolorata and Margaridisa atriventris feed on Acalypha spp. The Mourning Dove, Swamp Sparrow, and possibly other birds eat the seeds, while White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage, primarily during the summer and fall. Virginia Mercury lacks the toxic white latex that is a typical characteristic of other species in the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae).
Photographic Location: A flower garden underneath a tree in downtown Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Virginia Mercury is somewhat weedy, although it is less aggressive and common than Acalypha rhomboidea (Rhomboid Mercury). In the past, Rhomboid Mercury and Acalypha deamii (Deam's Mercury) were considered varieties of Virginia Mercury, but they are now regarded as distinct species. Virginia Mercury differs from these latter two species by its more hairy stems, more narrow leaves, more numerous lobes (10-15) on its foliaceous bracts, and slightly longer staminate spikes that are exerted beyond the lobes of the bracts. Another species, Acalypha graciliens (Slender Mercury), has even more slender leaves than Virginia Mercury and its petioles are shorter (about one-fourth the length of its leaves). Slender Mercury usually has longer staminate spikes (at least 1" long), although there is an uncommon variety (var. monococca) that has staminate spikes about the same length as Virginia Mercury. Individual seed capsules of Acalypha graciliens var. monococca have one seed each, while seed capsules of Virginia Mercury have 3 seeds each. Another common name of Acalypha virginica is Virginia Copperleaf.
Virginia Mercury is monoecious, bearing both staminate (male) and pistillate (female) flowers on the same plant. Both male and female flowers develop within the same foliaceous bracts from the axils of the leaves. These bracts are sessile (or nearly so), up to ½" tall, and a little more across; they are either open or loosely folded around the flowers. Individual bracts are medium green, more or less hairy, palmately lobed (10-15 lobes), and ciliate along their margins. Individual lobes are linear-lanceolate. Within each bract, a spike of staminate flowers develops. At maturity, each spike is up to ¾" long. Each staminate flower is less than 1/8" (3 mm.) across, consisting of a 4-lobed calyx, no petals, and several stamens. The staminate flowers are densely packed along the upper half of each spike. Within the same bract, there are 1-3 sessile pistillate flowers that are largely hidden from view. Each pistillate flower is about ¼" across, consisting of insignificant sepals, no petals, and a 3-valved globoid ovary with short divided styles. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer into the fall and lasts about 2-3 months. Only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Cross-pollination is by wind. Each pistillate flower matures into a 3-celled seed capsule; each cell of the capsule contains a single ovoid-oblongoid seed about 1-2 mm. long. This plant reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is partial sun, mesic conditions, and a fertile loam, although other soil types are tolerated. Most growth and development occurs during the summer and early fall.
Range & Habitat: The native Virginia Mercury is occasional to locally common in the southern half of Illinois, becoming uncommon in the northern half of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include disturbed open woodlands, rocky woodlands, thinly wooded bluffs, woodland borders, thickets, disturbed areas of prairies and weedy meadows, partially-shaded gravelly seeps, cropland and abandoned fields, areas along railroads and roadsides, flower gardens underneath trees, and areas adjacent to the foundations of buildings. This plant has low fidelity to any particular habitat.
Faunal Associations: The flea beetles Hornaltica bicolorata and Margaridisa atriventris feed on Acalypha spp. The Mourning Dove, Swamp Sparrow, and possibly other birds eat the seeds, while White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage, primarily during the summer and fall. Virginia Mercury lacks the toxic white latex that is a typical characteristic of other species in the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae).
Photographic Location: A flower garden underneath a tree in downtown Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Virginia Mercury is somewhat weedy, although it is less aggressive and common than Acalypha rhomboidea (Rhomboid Mercury). In the past, Rhomboid Mercury and Acalypha deamii (Deam's Mercury) were considered varieties of Virginia Mercury, but they are now regarded as distinct species. Virginia Mercury differs from these latter two species by its more hairy stems, more narrow leaves, more numerous lobes (10-15) on its foliaceous bracts, and slightly longer staminate spikes that are exerted beyond the lobes of the bracts. Another species, Acalypha graciliens (Slender Mercury), has even more slender leaves than Virginia Mercury and its petioles are shorter (about one-fourth the length of its leaves). Slender Mercury usually has longer staminate spikes (at least 1" long), although there is an uncommon variety (var. monococca) that has staminate spikes about the same length as Virginia Mercury. Individual seed capsules of Acalypha graciliens var. monococca have one seed each, while seed capsules of Virginia Mercury have 3 seeds each. Another common name of Acalypha virginica is Virginia Copperleaf.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月27日
Description: This wildflower is either a short-lived perennial or summer annual. It is usually a short bushy plant about 4–18" tall, although larger specimens have been reported. The much-branched stems are light to medium green, glabrous, sometimes glaucous, 4-angled or terete, and sometimes narrowly winged. The opposite leaves are about ½–1½" long, ¼–¾" across, and sessile; they are medium green, broadly oblong to oval in shape with 1-5 prominent veins, smooth among their margins, and glabrous. The upper stems terminate in small clusters (cymes) of flowers. Individual flowers are ¼" across, consisting of 5 yellow to yellow-orangeFlowering Plant petals, 5 green sepals, a light green pistil with 3 styles, and 5-15 stamens. The petals and sepals are about the same length; the petals are oblong, while the sepals are linear-oblong. The peduncle and pedicels of the flowers are light to medium green, slender, and glabrous; sometimes there are small scale-like bracts near the area where two pedicels diverge. These bracts are linear-lanceolate in shape and much smaller in size than the leaves. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 2-3 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Each flower is replaced by an ovoid seed capsule that becomes up to 1/3" (8 mm.) tall at maturity; this glabrous capsule has remnants of the styles at its apex and it is 3-celled. Each cell of the capsule contains numerous tiny seeds that are dark-colored, narrowly oblongoid, and somewhat flattened. The persistent sepals become enlarged as the seed capsules mature; the sepals are usually about the same length or a little longer than full-sized capsules. This wildflower reproduces by reseeding itself.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet to moist conditions, and acidic soil that is either sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf St. John's Wort is occasional in most areas of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandy forests in floodplain areas, sandy swamps, wet to moist sand prairies, gravelly seeps and springs with an acidic bedrock (e.g., sandstone), damp depressions in sandstone glades, damp depressions along sandstone cliffs, low sandy areas along rivers and ponds, damp depressions in sandy paths, and abandoned sandy fields. This wildflower is found in both disturbed and little-disturbed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by small bees, which collect pollen. Some flies may visit the flowers to feed on the pollen. Nectar is not available as a floral reward. There are a small number of insects that feed on various parts of Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths, some leaf beetles, the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak). See the Insect Table for a listing of these insect species. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage because of its toxicity. The foliage contains hypericin, which produces a photosensitive reaction to sunlight, particularly in light-skinned animals.
Photographic Location: A damp depression in a sandy path at the Iroquois County Conservation Area in Illinois.
Comments: This wildflower resembles a dwarf version of the better-known Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). Other small-flowered Hypericum spp. (flowers 1/3" across or less) usually have more narrow leaves and therefore are easily distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort. An exception is Hypericum boreale (Northern St. John's Wort), which is rare in Illinois. Generally, Northern St. John's Wort can be distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort and other small-flowered species in this genus by its leafy floral bracts, which resemble small leaves. It also has purple seed capsules that are as long or longer than its sepals. Dwarf St. John's Wort, in contrast, has tiny scale-like floral bracts and its seed capsules usually remain green for a longer period of time.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun to light shade, wet to moist conditions, and acidic soil that is either sandy or rocky.
Range & Habitat: The native Dwarf St. John's Wort is occasional in most areas of Illinois, otherwise it is uncommon or absent (see Distribution Map). Habitats include sandy forests in floodplain areas, sandy swamps, wet to moist sand prairies, gravelly seeps and springs with an acidic bedrock (e.g., sandstone), damp depressions in sandstone glades, damp depressions along sandstone cliffs, low sandy areas along rivers and ponds, damp depressions in sandy paths, and abandoned sandy fields. This wildflower is found in both disturbed and little-disturbed habitats.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated primarily by small bees, which collect pollen. Some flies may visit the flowers to feed on the pollen. Nectar is not available as a floral reward. There are a small number of insects that feed on various parts of Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). These insect feeders include the caterpillars of several moths, some leaf beetles, the aphid Brachysiphum hyperici, and the caterpillars of the butterfly Strymon melinus (Gray Hairstreak). See the Insect Table for a listing of these insect species. Mammalian herbivores usually avoid consumption of the foliage because of its toxicity. The foliage contains hypericin, which produces a photosensitive reaction to sunlight, particularly in light-skinned animals.
Photographic Location: A damp depression in a sandy path at the Iroquois County Conservation Area in Illinois.
Comments: This wildflower resembles a dwarf version of the better-known Hypericum spp. (St. John's Wort species). Other small-flowered Hypericum spp. (flowers 1/3" across or less) usually have more narrow leaves and therefore are easily distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort. An exception is Hypericum boreale (Northern St. John's Wort), which is rare in Illinois. Generally, Northern St. John's Wort can be distinguished from Dwarf St. John's Wort and other small-flowered species in this genus by its leafy floral bracts, which resemble small leaves. It also has purple seed capsules that are as long or longer than its sepals. Dwarf St. John's Wort, in contrast, has tiny scale-like floral bracts and its seed capsules usually remain green for a longer period of time.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月24日
Description: This perennial wildflower is ¾-2½' tall, abundantly branched, and sprawling across adjacent vegetation. The stems are light to medium green, sharply 4-angled and sparsely rough-edged from short stiff hairs. Along these stems are whorls of 4-6 sessile leaves; whorls of 5-6 leaves sometimes occur where the stem branches, otherwise there are 4 leaves per whorl. Individual leaves are up to 1" (25 mm.) long and ¼" (6 mm.) across; they are medium to dark green and narrowly elliptic or narrowly elliptic-oblanceolate in shape. The leaf margins are without teeth and rough-edged from short stiff hairs. There is a single prominent vein per leaf.
Both terminal and axillary cymes of 1-3 flowers are produced. Individual flowers are 1/8" (3 mm.) across or a little less; each flower has a white corolla with 3 (less often 4) spreading lobes, a bifurcated two-celled ovary with a pair of styles, and 3 (less often 4) stamens. The surface of the ovary is green and smooth. The pedicels of the flowers or fruits are up to 1" long, straight, and angular; their edges are smooth. The blooming period occurs during the summer for about 2-3 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Each flower is replaced by a two-celled seedpod that is about 1/8" (3 mm.) across. The seedpod changes color as it matures from green, to purple, and black. Each cell of the pod is globoid-ovoid in shape, smooth, and single-seeded. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing loam, clay-loam, sand, or gravel. Standing water is readily tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native Stiff Bedstraw is occasional in northern Illinois, and uncommon or absent in the rest of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include marshes, fens, low areas along rivers and ponds, swamps, wet sand prairies, prairie swales, and ditches. Stiff Bedstraw is usually found in higher quality wetlands in Illinois.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by flies and small bees. The caterpillars of some moths feed on the foliage or flower tissues of Galium spp. These species include: Epirrhoe alternata (White-Bordered Toothed Carpet), Hyles gallii (Galium Sphinx), Lobocleta ossularia (Drab Brown Wave), and Scopula inductata (Soft-Lined Wave). The species Myzus cerasi (Black Cherry Aphid) uses Galium spp. as summer hosts. Three plant bugs in Illinois are known to feed on these plants: Criocoris saliens, Polymerus proximus, and the introduced Polymerus unifasciatus. White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage sparingly or not at all. Because the bristly hairs of the stems and leaves can cling to passing objects, animals may play a minor role in spreading the seeds to new locations.
Photographic Location: A wet sand prairie at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in NW Indiana.
Comments: Stiff Bedstraw is unusual because its corollas can have 3-4 lobes on the same plant. In Illinois, the only other bedstraw with 3 lobes on its corollas is Small Bedstraw (Galium trifidum). This latter species is similar to Stiff Bedstraw, but smaller in size and slightly more bristly. In particular, the pedicels of Small Bedstraw are bristly and curved, while those of Stiff Bedstraw are smooth and straight. While Stiff Bedstraw is scattered throughout Illinois, Small Bedstraw is restricted to northern Illinois and a sandy area of central Illinois. This latter species has a more northern distribution and prefers a cool climate.
Both terminal and axillary cymes of 1-3 flowers are produced. Individual flowers are 1/8" (3 mm.) across or a little less; each flower has a white corolla with 3 (less often 4) spreading lobes, a bifurcated two-celled ovary with a pair of styles, and 3 (less often 4) stamens. The surface of the ovary is green and smooth. The pedicels of the flowers or fruits are up to 1" long, straight, and angular; their edges are smooth. The blooming period occurs during the summer for about 2-3 months. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Each flower is replaced by a two-celled seedpod that is about 1/8" (3 mm.) across. The seedpod changes color as it matures from green, to purple, and black. Each cell of the pod is globoid-ovoid in shape, smooth, and single-seeded. The root system is fibrous and rhizomatous.
Cultivation: The preference is full or partial sun, wet to moist conditions, and soil containing loam, clay-loam, sand, or gravel. Standing water is readily tolerated if it is temporary.
Range & Habitat: The native Stiff Bedstraw is occasional in northern Illinois, and uncommon or absent in the rest of the state (see Distribution Map). Habitats include marshes, fens, low areas along rivers and ponds, swamps, wet sand prairies, prairie swales, and ditches. Stiff Bedstraw is usually found in higher quality wetlands in Illinois.
Faunal Associations: The flowers are cross-pollinated by flies and small bees. The caterpillars of some moths feed on the foliage or flower tissues of Galium spp. These species include: Epirrhoe alternata (White-Bordered Toothed Carpet), Hyles gallii (Galium Sphinx), Lobocleta ossularia (Drab Brown Wave), and Scopula inductata (Soft-Lined Wave). The species Myzus cerasi (Black Cherry Aphid) uses Galium spp. as summer hosts. Three plant bugs in Illinois are known to feed on these plants: Criocoris saliens, Polymerus proximus, and the introduced Polymerus unifasciatus. White-Tailed Deer browse on the foliage sparingly or not at all. Because the bristly hairs of the stems and leaves can cling to passing objects, animals may play a minor role in spreading the seeds to new locations.
Photographic Location: A wet sand prairie at the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore in NW Indiana.
Comments: Stiff Bedstraw is unusual because its corollas can have 3-4 lobes on the same plant. In Illinois, the only other bedstraw with 3 lobes on its corollas is Small Bedstraw (Galium trifidum). This latter species is similar to Stiff Bedstraw, but smaller in size and slightly more bristly. In particular, the pedicels of Small Bedstraw are bristly and curved, while those of Stiff Bedstraw are smooth and straight. While Stiff Bedstraw is scattered throughout Illinois, Small Bedstraw is restricted to northern Illinois and a sandy area of central Illinois. This latter species has a more northern distribution and prefers a cool climate.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月21日
Description: This perennial plant is 1-4' tall. It is erect and usually remains unbranched. The central stem is light to medium green, terete or angular, and glabrous to sparsely hairy. The alternate leaves are up to 5" long and 2" wide; they are oblanceolate, obovate, ovate, or broadly elliptic in shape, and their margins are serrated. The lower leaves clasp the central stem, while the upper leaves are sessile. The upper surfaces of leaves are medium to dark green and sparingly covered with short hairs. The central stem terminates in a spike-like raceme of flowers about ½-2' long.
The flowers are 1-1½" long, angled upward, and densely distributed along the raceme. Each flower has a blue-violet corolla (rarely white) that is narrowly bell-shaped (campanulate) and 2-lipped. The upper lip has 2 slender erect lobes that curve slightly inward or backward, while the lower lip has 3 descending lobes that are oblong-lanceolate. Near the throat of the flower at the base of the lower lobes, there is a pair of small white patches. The green calyx is deeply divided into 5 linear-lanceolate teeth; it is conspicuously hairy. The calyx teeth are long and spreading. The blooming period occurs from late summer into fall, lasting about 2 months. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by capsules containing small seeds. These seeds are probably distributed by wind or water to some extent. The root system consists of a central taproot, fromDistribution Map which occasional basal offshoots are produced.
Cultivation: The preference is wet to moist soil and partial sun. Full sun is tolerated if the soil is consistently moist, and light shade is also acceptable. The soil should be fertile and loamy. This plant withstands occasional flooding, but it will become muddy and ragged-looking if it receives too much abuse. The small seeds require light to germinate. Great Blue Lobelia can be highly variable in height, depending on environmental conditions and its stage of development.
Range & Habitat: The native Great Blue Lobelia occurs throughout Illinois, except for a few counties in southern Illinois. It is occasional to locally common. Typical habitats include moist black soil prairies, soggy meadows near rivers, low areas along rivers and ponds, floodplain and bottomland woodlands, woodland borders, bottoms of sandstone canyons along streams, swamps, fens, gravelly seeps and springs, ditches, and moist areas of pastures. Great Blue Lobelia can be found in both disturbed areas and high quality habitats.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily bumblebees and other long-tongued bees (Anthophora spp., Melissodes spp., Svastra spp.). Less common visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, large butterflies, and Halictid bees. The Halictid bees collect pollen only and they are non-pollinating. The caterpillars of a moth, Enigmogramma basigera (Pink-washed Looper Moth), feed on the foliage of Great Blue Lobelia (Schweitzer & Roberts, 2007). Most mammalian herbivores don't eat this plant because the foliage contains several toxic alkaloids, chief among them being lobeline and lobelanine. These toxic substances produce symptoms that resemble nicotine poisoning. However, it has been reported that deer occasionally eat this plant, perhaps enjoying greater immunity to these toxic substances than other animals. The seeds are too small to be of much value to birds.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a garden of the Anita Purves Nature Center in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Great Blue Lobelia is a lovely plant that produces some welcome diversity with its violet-blue flowers during late summer or fall, when forbs with yellow flowers are typically dominant. Unfortunately, its value to wildlife is rather limited. Among the Lobelia spp. with bluish flowers in Illinois, Great Blue Lobelia has the largest flowers and they are usually a more deep shade of blue-violet, making it easy to identify.
The flowers are 1-1½" long, angled upward, and densely distributed along the raceme. Each flower has a blue-violet corolla (rarely white) that is narrowly bell-shaped (campanulate) and 2-lipped. The upper lip has 2 slender erect lobes that curve slightly inward or backward, while the lower lip has 3 descending lobes that are oblong-lanceolate. Near the throat of the flower at the base of the lower lobes, there is a pair of small white patches. The green calyx is deeply divided into 5 linear-lanceolate teeth; it is conspicuously hairy. The calyx teeth are long and spreading. The blooming period occurs from late summer into fall, lasting about 2 months. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by capsules containing small seeds. These seeds are probably distributed by wind or water to some extent. The root system consists of a central taproot, fromDistribution Map which occasional basal offshoots are produced.
Cultivation: The preference is wet to moist soil and partial sun. Full sun is tolerated if the soil is consistently moist, and light shade is also acceptable. The soil should be fertile and loamy. This plant withstands occasional flooding, but it will become muddy and ragged-looking if it receives too much abuse. The small seeds require light to germinate. Great Blue Lobelia can be highly variable in height, depending on environmental conditions and its stage of development.
Range & Habitat: The native Great Blue Lobelia occurs throughout Illinois, except for a few counties in southern Illinois. It is occasional to locally common. Typical habitats include moist black soil prairies, soggy meadows near rivers, low areas along rivers and ponds, floodplain and bottomland woodlands, woodland borders, bottoms of sandstone canyons along streams, swamps, fens, gravelly seeps and springs, ditches, and moist areas of pastures. Great Blue Lobelia can be found in both disturbed areas and high quality habitats.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily bumblebees and other long-tongued bees (Anthophora spp., Melissodes spp., Svastra spp.). Less common visitors include the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird, large butterflies, and Halictid bees. The Halictid bees collect pollen only and they are non-pollinating. The caterpillars of a moth, Enigmogramma basigera (Pink-washed Looper Moth), feed on the foliage of Great Blue Lobelia (Schweitzer & Roberts, 2007). Most mammalian herbivores don't eat this plant because the foliage contains several toxic alkaloids, chief among them being lobeline and lobelanine. These toxic substances produce symptoms that resemble nicotine poisoning. However, it has been reported that deer occasionally eat this plant, perhaps enjoying greater immunity to these toxic substances than other animals. The seeds are too small to be of much value to birds.
Photographic Location: The photographs were taken at a garden of the Anita Purves Nature Center in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Great Blue Lobelia is a lovely plant that produces some welcome diversity with its violet-blue flowers during late summer or fall, when forbs with yellow flowers are typically dominant. Unfortunately, its value to wildlife is rather limited. Among the Lobelia spp. with bluish flowers in Illinois, Great Blue Lobelia has the largest flowers and they are usually a more deep shade of blue-violet, making it easy to identify.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月21日
Description: This perennial wildflower is ½-1½' tall and either branched or unbranched. The slender stem(s) is light green to purple. Alternate leaves about ½-2" long and 1-5 mm. across occur along the stem(s). The leaves are light to medium green, linear to linear-oblong in shape, and usually smooth along their margins. The central stem and any lateral stems terminate in racemes of flowers; the flowers are distributed sparsely along the rachis of each raceme. Each flower is ¼-½" across, consisting of a 2-lipped tubular corolla that is light blue (rarely white), a bell-shaped (campanulate) calyx with 5 slender teeth that are light green to purple, 5 stamens, and a 2-celled ovary with a single style. The stamens tightly surround the style. The upper lip of the corolla is divided into 2 small narrow lobes, while the lower lip is divided into 3 large lobes. At the base of the corolla's lower lip, there is a conspicuous patch of white; sometimes this patch becomes yellow along its upper boundary near the throat of the corolla. The corolla is hairless throughout, while sometimes the bottom of the calyx is pubescent. The slender pedicels of the flowers are ¼-1" long; they are light green to purple and either glabrous or minutely pubescent. Toward the middle of each pedicel there is a tiny linear bractlet; at the base of each pedicel there is a linear bract that is about the same length as the pedicel. The blooming period occurs from mid-summer to early fall and lasts about 1 month. Afterwards, the flowers are replaced by seed capsules about 4 mm. across; each capsule splits open at its apex to release numerous tiny seeds that are narrowly oblongoid and compressed (somewhat flattened) in shape. The seeds are small enough to be blown about by the wind or transported by water. The root system is shallow and fibrous.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet to consistently moist conditions, and soil that is sandy to sandy-peaty and calcareous. Episodic periods of shallow water are tolerated.
Range & Habitat: The native Kalm's Lobelia occurs in northern Illinois, where it is uncommon (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the southern range limit of this species. Habitats include grassy fens, wet sandy meadows, borders of interdunal swales, low areas along springs, and bogs. This conservative species is found in high quality wetlands where the original flora remains intact.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The flowers are probably cross-pollinated by various bees and small butterflies. Like other Lobelia spp., Kalm's Lobelia has an acrid sap that is more or less toxic to mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: A fen in NE Illinois. The photographs were taken by Lisa Culp, Copyright © 2011.
Comments: This is one of the less common Lobelia species in Illinois. Kalm's Lobelia has a delicate beauty that derives from its pastel blue flowers and slender foliage. It is somewhat similar in appearance to Pale-Spiked Lobelia (Lobelia spicata), but its leaves are more narrow (less than ¼" across). Other Lobelia species in the state also have wider leaves, and some species have larger flowers. Another common name of Lobelia kalmii is Brook Lobelia.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet to consistently moist conditions, and soil that is sandy to sandy-peaty and calcareous. Episodic periods of shallow water are tolerated.
Range & Habitat: The native Kalm's Lobelia occurs in northern Illinois, where it is uncommon (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the southern range limit of this species. Habitats include grassy fens, wet sandy meadows, borders of interdunal swales, low areas along springs, and bogs. This conservative species is found in high quality wetlands where the original flora remains intact.
Faunal Associations: Very little is known about floral-faunal relationships for this species. The flowers are probably cross-pollinated by various bees and small butterflies. Like other Lobelia spp., Kalm's Lobelia has an acrid sap that is more or less toxic to mammalian herbivores.
Photographic Location: A fen in NE Illinois. The photographs were taken by Lisa Culp, Copyright © 2011.
Comments: This is one of the less common Lobelia species in Illinois. Kalm's Lobelia has a delicate beauty that derives from its pastel blue flowers and slender foliage. It is somewhat similar in appearance to Pale-Spiked Lobelia (Lobelia spicata), but its leaves are more narrow (less than ¼" across). Other Lobelia species in the state also have wider leaves, and some species have larger flowers. Another common name of Lobelia kalmii is Brook Lobelia.
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Miss Chen
2018年06月16日
Description: This herbaceous perennial plant forms a small tuft of ascending to arching basal leaves about 4-12" (10-30 cm.) long. Individual basal leaves are about 1 mm. across, medium green, terete, and hairless (or nearly so). One or two erect floral stalks about 8-16" (20-40 cm.) long develop from the tuft of leaves; these stalks are about 1.5 mm. across, reddish brown, terete, and hairless. The foliage is reportedly aromatic when crushed. Each stalk has a narrow raceme of flowers about 3-10" (7.5-25 cm.) long; these flowers alternate along the stalk and they are sparsely distributed. Each flower is about 2 mm. across, consisting of 3 purplish green petals, 3 purplish green sepals, 3 fertile green pistils that are joined together, and 6 inconspicuous stamens. The outer sepals are orbicular-ovate in shape, while the inner petals have a flattened-pyriform shape. The stigmas of the pistils are white and feathery (plumose).
The slender pedicels of the flowers are 2-10 mm. long, ascending to erect, reddish brown, and hairless. The blooming period occurs during the summer and early autumn, lasting about 1-2 months for a large colony of plants. The flowers are cross-pollinated by the wind. Afterwards, the pistils develop into 3-celled fruits (schizocarps) about 7-9 mm. long and 1 mm. across. These fruits are narrowly oblongoid-oblanceoloid in shape and 3-angled; they are initially green, but later become brown. At maturity, these fruits divide longitudinally into 3 narrow sections, beginning at the bottom. The central axis of each fruit is 3-winged; there are 3 seeds per fruit. The seeds are similar in appearance to their fruits, but a little shorter and more slender. The root system consists of a whitish crown with fibrous roots.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet conditions, and a barren calcareous soil containing an abundance of sand or gravel. This plant is intolerant of competition from other ground vegetation. It is quite cold-hardy.
Range & Habitat: The native Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) is rare in Illinois, where it is state-listed as 'endangered.' It is found in the NE section of the state and 2 counties toward the center of the state (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the southern range-limit of this species. In the United States, Slender Arrowgrass occurs in the New England region, Great Lakes area, Northern Plains, and scattered areas of the western states. It also occurs in Canada, Eurasia, and New Zealand. In Illinois, habitats consist primarily of fens, calcareous gravelly seeps, marl flats, and calcareous sandy pannes near Lake Michigan. This very conservative plant is restricted to high quality natural areas within the state.
Faunal Associations: Floral-faunal relationships of this plant in Illinois are not known. Further to the north in Canada and Alaska, the foliage and especially the whitish crowns are a preferred source of food for the adults and goslings of several species of geese, including Branta canadensis (Canada Goose), Branta bernicula nigricans (Black Brant Goose), and Chen caerulescens (Lesser Snow Goose). The foliage and crowns of Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) are reportedly high in protein and low in fiber (Mulder et al., 1996; Prevett et al., 1985).
The foliage also contains hydrocyanic compounds that can be toxic to sheep and cattle if it is consumed in sufficient quantity. There is some evidence in Europe that the seeds of this plant can cling to the fur of deer and cattle. Thus, these animals can spread the seeds to new areas (Mouissie et al., 2005).
Photographic Location: A gravelly seep in McHenry County, Illinois.
Comments: This plant is not very showy and it is easily overlooked. The only other species of this genus that occurs in Illinois, Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima), is also very rare within the state and it occurs in similar areas. Sea Arrowgrass is a little larger and stouter than Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) overall. Its fruits (schizocarps) have a wider ovoid shape and they divide into 6 sections (6 seeds per fruit), rather than 3 sections. Unlike Slender Arrowgrass, the central axis of its fruit is not winged. The wind-pollinated flowers of these plants are rather odd-looking because their feathery stigmas resemble tufts of hair that are typically found on seeds. An alternative spelling of the scientific name for Slender Arrowgrass is Triglochin palustre, and another common name of this plant is Marsh Arrowgrass.
The slender pedicels of the flowers are 2-10 mm. long, ascending to erect, reddish brown, and hairless. The blooming period occurs during the summer and early autumn, lasting about 1-2 months for a large colony of plants. The flowers are cross-pollinated by the wind. Afterwards, the pistils develop into 3-celled fruits (schizocarps) about 7-9 mm. long and 1 mm. across. These fruits are narrowly oblongoid-oblanceoloid in shape and 3-angled; they are initially green, but later become brown. At maturity, these fruits divide longitudinally into 3 narrow sections, beginning at the bottom. The central axis of each fruit is 3-winged; there are 3 seeds per fruit. The seeds are similar in appearance to their fruits, but a little shorter and more slender. The root system consists of a whitish crown with fibrous roots.
Cultivation: The preference is full sun, wet conditions, and a barren calcareous soil containing an abundance of sand or gravel. This plant is intolerant of competition from other ground vegetation. It is quite cold-hardy.
Range & Habitat: The native Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) is rare in Illinois, where it is state-listed as 'endangered.' It is found in the NE section of the state and 2 counties toward the center of the state (see Distribution Map). Illinois lies along the southern range-limit of this species. In the United States, Slender Arrowgrass occurs in the New England region, Great Lakes area, Northern Plains, and scattered areas of the western states. It also occurs in Canada, Eurasia, and New Zealand. In Illinois, habitats consist primarily of fens, calcareous gravelly seeps, marl flats, and calcareous sandy pannes near Lake Michigan. This very conservative plant is restricted to high quality natural areas within the state.
Faunal Associations: Floral-faunal relationships of this plant in Illinois are not known. Further to the north in Canada and Alaska, the foliage and especially the whitish crowns are a preferred source of food for the adults and goslings of several species of geese, including Branta canadensis (Canada Goose), Branta bernicula nigricans (Black Brant Goose), and Chen caerulescens (Lesser Snow Goose). The foliage and crowns of Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) are reportedly high in protein and low in fiber (Mulder et al., 1996; Prevett et al., 1985).
The foliage also contains hydrocyanic compounds that can be toxic to sheep and cattle if it is consumed in sufficient quantity. There is some evidence in Europe that the seeds of this plant can cling to the fur of deer and cattle. Thus, these animals can spread the seeds to new areas (Mouissie et al., 2005).
Photographic Location: A gravelly seep in McHenry County, Illinois.
Comments: This plant is not very showy and it is easily overlooked. The only other species of this genus that occurs in Illinois, Sea Arrowgrass (Triglochin maritima), is also very rare within the state and it occurs in similar areas. Sea Arrowgrass is a little larger and stouter than Slender Arrowgrass (Triglochin palustris) overall. Its fruits (schizocarps) have a wider ovoid shape and they divide into 6 sections (6 seeds per fruit), rather than 3 sections. Unlike Slender Arrowgrass, the central axis of its fruit is not winged. The wind-pollinated flowers of these plants are rather odd-looking because their feathery stigmas resemble tufts of hair that are typically found on seeds. An alternative spelling of the scientific name for Slender Arrowgrass is Triglochin palustre, and another common name of this plant is Marsh Arrowgrass.
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成长记
Lolney
2018年06月09日
I now added "Whopper® Red With Green Leaf Begonia. Water: Medium. Fertilize: Every two weeks. General Information: Whopper begonias offer super-sized performance which means maximum enjoyment for customers. Whopper is a big, vigorous plant that will fill out beds and large containers equally well. Truly a 50 MPH drive-by color to ... Spacing: 10 - 14'' (25 - 36cm) Scientific Name: Begonia x benariensis Height: 30 - 34'' (76 - 86cm) Exposure: Shade, Partial Sun, Sun" in my "garden"
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Miss Chen
2018年06月05日
Description: This perennial wildflower is 6-14" tall, producing both basal and cauline leaves. The blades of both basal and cauline leaves are up to 4" long and 2½" across; they are medium to dark green, cordate or oval-cordate, palmately veined, and slightly crenate along their margins. The upper surfaces of the blades are hairless. For the typical variety of Canada Violet, the lower surfaces of the blades are largely hairless, except for fine hairs along the major veins. For var. rugulosa, these lower surfaces are more hairy. Basal leaves have longer petioles than cauline leaves. The flowering plants produce stems with alternate leaves. These stems are light green, somewhat angular, and sometimes finely pubescent. At the base of the petioles of each alternate leaf, there is a pair of linear-lanceolate stipules up to 1/3" (8 mm.) long; these stipules lack teeth.
Individual flowers are produced from the axils of the alternate leaves. The slender pedicels raise the flowers only a little above the foliage. Each flower is ½–¾" across, consisting of 5 white petals, 5 light green sepals, and a short nectar spur; the petals are much larger than the sepals. The reproductive organs are largely hidden within the throat of the flower. The lower petal has dark purple veins, while the two lateral petals have such veins to a lesser extent. The two lateral petals also have small tufts of hairs near the throat of the flower, where there is a conspicuous yellow patch. The back sides of the petals are light purple. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to early summer and sometimes during the fall. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Later in the summer, inconspicuous cleistogamous flowers are produced, which are self-fertile. Each fertile flower is replaced by an ovoid seed capsule up to ½" long. This capsule is initially green, but it later turns brown and divides into 3 segments, flinging the seeds. The root system is fibrous and either rhizomatous or stoloniferous. Colonies of plants are often produced.
Cultivation: This violet prefers dappled sunlight to light shade during the spring, but tolerates greater shade during the summer. Other cultural requirements include more or less mesic conditions, a rich soil containing loam and decaying organic matter, and cool summer temperatures.
Range & Habitat: Canada Violet is a rare wildflower that is restricted to the northern two tiers of counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). It is state-listed as "endangered." It is native to the driftless area of NW Illinois, while populations in NE Illinois may be descendants of plants that have escaped cultivation. Habitats include mesic deciduous woodlands and bluffs. Canada Violet is normally found in high quality woodlands, although escaped cultivated plants are likely to appear in more disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily bees, including bumblebees, Little Carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), digger bees (Synhalonia spp.), Mason bees (Osmia spp.), and Andrenid bees. The Andrenid bee, Andrena violae, is an oligolectic visitor of violet flowers. Other floral visitors include bee flies and occasional skippers and butterflies. These latter insects seek nectar. The larvae of many moths and butterflies feed on the foliage of violets (see Lepidoptera Table). These larvae often hide during the day, but come out at night to feed. Other insects that feed on violets include Neotoxoptera violae (Violet Aphid), the larvae of Ametastegia pallipes (Violet Sawfly), and Odontothrips pictipennis (Thrips sp.). Among vertebrate animals, the Ruffed Grouse and Wild Turkey eat the seeds and fleshy roots. Other animals that occasionally feed on violets in wooded areas include the White-Tailed Deer (foliage), Eastern Chipmunk (stems & leaves), White-Footed Mouse (seeds), and Wood Turtle (Clemmys insculpta). However, the importance of violets as a food source to vertebrate animals is relatively low.
Photographic Location: Bob Vaiden's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Canada Violet is somewhat similar in appearance to Viola striata (Cream Violet). It differs from the latter by the yellow patch at the throat of its flowers, petals with pale purple backsides, and toothless stipules. Other white-flowered violets in the Midwest are stemless; they produce both flowers and leaves from the crown of the root system. The leaves of Canada Violet have tips that are more slender and elongated than those of most other violets, regardless of the color of their flowers. Both the flowers and foliage are attractive.
Individual flowers are produced from the axils of the alternate leaves. The slender pedicels raise the flowers only a little above the foliage. Each flower is ½–¾" across, consisting of 5 white petals, 5 light green sepals, and a short nectar spur; the petals are much larger than the sepals. The reproductive organs are largely hidden within the throat of the flower. The lower petal has dark purple veins, while the two lateral petals have such veins to a lesser extent. The two lateral petals also have small tufts of hairs near the throat of the flower, where there is a conspicuous yellow patch. The back sides of the petals are light purple. The blooming period occurs from mid-spring to early summer and sometimes during the fall. Usually, only a few flowers are in bloom at the same time. Later in the summer, inconspicuous cleistogamous flowers are produced, which are self-fertile. Each fertile flower is replaced by an ovoid seed capsule up to ½" long. This capsule is initially green, but it later turns brown and divides into 3 segments, flinging the seeds. The root system is fibrous and either rhizomatous or stoloniferous. Colonies of plants are often produced.
Cultivation: This violet prefers dappled sunlight to light shade during the spring, but tolerates greater shade during the summer. Other cultural requirements include more or less mesic conditions, a rich soil containing loam and decaying organic matter, and cool summer temperatures.
Range & Habitat: Canada Violet is a rare wildflower that is restricted to the northern two tiers of counties in Illinois (see Distribution Map). It is state-listed as "endangered." It is native to the driftless area of NW Illinois, while populations in NE Illinois may be descendants of plants that have escaped cultivation. Habitats include mesic deciduous woodlands and bluffs. Canada Violet is normally found in high quality woodlands, although escaped cultivated plants are likely to appear in more disturbed areas.
Faunal Associations: The nectar and pollen of the flowers attract primarily bees, including bumblebees, Little Carpenter bees (Ceratina spp.), digger bees (Synhalonia spp.), Mason bees (Osmia spp.), and Andrenid bees. The Andrenid bee, Andrena violae, is an oligolectic visitor of violet flowers. Other floral visitors include bee flies and occasional skippers and butterflies. These latter insects seek nectar. The larvae of many moths and butterflies feed on the foliage of violets (see Lepidoptera Table). These larvae often hide during the day, but come out at night to feed. Other insects that feed on violets include Neotoxoptera violae (Violet Aphid), the larvae of Ametastegia pallipes (Violet Sawfly), and Odontothrips pictipennis (Thrips sp.). Among vertebrate animals, the Ruffed Grouse and Wild Turkey eat the seeds and fleshy roots. Other animals that occasionally feed on violets in wooded areas include the White-Tailed Deer (foliage), Eastern Chipmunk (stems & leaves), White-Footed Mouse (seeds), and Wood Turtle (Clemmys insculpta). However, the importance of violets as a food source to vertebrate animals is relatively low.
Photographic Location: Bob Vaiden's wildflower garden in Urbana, Illinois.
Comments: Canada Violet is somewhat similar in appearance to Viola striata (Cream Violet). It differs from the latter by the yellow patch at the throat of its flowers, petals with pale purple backsides, and toothless stipules. Other white-flowered violets in the Midwest are stemless; they produce both flowers and leaves from the crown of the root system. The leaves of Canada Violet have tips that are more slender and elongated than those of most other violets, regardless of the color of their flowers. Both the flowers and foliage are attractive.
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