Contents
Description
Bupleurum is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is commonly known as hare’s ear or thorowax, and its species are widely distributed throughout Asia, Europe, and Africa. Bupleurum has been used for centuries in traditional Chinese medicine due to its medicinal properties, which include being an anti-inflammatory, an antioxidant, and a diuretic. Bupleurum is also used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Bupleurum |
Appearance
Bupleurum is a perennial herb that typically grows up to three feet tall. It has long, slender leaves that are usually green or grayish-green in color. The flowers of Bupleurum are small, yellow, and clustered together in umbels. The plant’s fruit is a dry, oval-shaped capsule that contains two seeds.
Care Guide
Bupleurum is relatively easy to care for and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for Bupleurum:
Water
Bupleurum prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. It is important not to let the soil dry out completely, as this can cause the plant to wilt.
Fertilization
Bupleurum does not require a lot of fertilizer, but it will benefit from a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil
Bupleurum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it is important that the soil is not too heavy or compacted.
Sunlight
Bupleurum prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not flower as well in shady conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Bupleurum is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bupleurum is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet, and it may attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Bupleurum is native to Asia, Europe, and Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and forests.
Question and Answer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Bupleurum:
Q: Is Bupleurum safe to consume?
A: Bupleurum is generally considered safe when consumed in small amounts. However, it can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to a healthcare provider before using Bupleurum if you are taking any medications.
Q: How is Bupleurum used in traditional Chinese medicine?
A: Bupleurum is used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including fever, liver disease, and menstrual disorders.
Q: Can Bupleurum be grown indoors?
A: Bupleurum can be grown indoors if it is provided with bright, indirect light and well-draining soil. However, it may not flower as well indoors as it would outdoors.
Q: Is Bupleurum invasive?
A: Bupleurum is not considered invasive, but it can self-seed and spread if not controlled.
Related Plants
- Bupleurum chinense
- Bupleurum fruticosum
- Bupleurum longifolium
- Bupleurum rotundifolium
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/bupleurum/growing-bupleurum.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a900
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4910285/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-650/bupleurum
