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Description
Carthamus Lanatus, also known as Safflower, is a thistle-like plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is an annual plant that grows up to 1.5 meters in height and blooms in late spring to early summer. The plant is native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa and is widely cultivated for its oil, which is used in cooking, cosmetics, and as a substitute for saffron.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain| Eukaryota || Kingdom| Plantae|| Phylum| Anthophyta || Class| Dicotyledonae || Order| Asterales || Family| Asteraceae || Genus| Carthamus || Species| Carthamus Lanatus |
Appearance
Carthamus Lanatus has stiff stems that are covered in spiny leaves. The flowers are yellow or orange and are surrounded by bracts. The plant has a taproot system that allows it to access water and nutrients from deep in the soil. The leaves and flowers of the plant are edible and are sometimes used as a medicinal herb.
Care Guide
Carthamus Lanatus requires well-draining soil and full sun exposure to thrive. It prefers moderate watering and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-10 and should be protected from frost.
Common Pests & Diseases
Carthamus Lanatus is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, which can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Carthamus Lanatus is native to Asia, Europe, and North Africa, but it is now widely cultivated in other regions of the world. It prefers dry, arid climates and can be found growing in fields, pastures, and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Carthamus Lanatus be grown indoors?
A: While it is possible to grow Carthamus Lanatus indoors, it prefers full sun exposure and may not thrive in low light conditions.
Q: Is Carthamus Lanatus a good source of food for animals?
A: Yes, Carthamus Lanatus is often used as a forage crop for livestock and is also attractive to bees and other pollinators.
Q: How long does it take for Carthamus Lanatus to mature?
A: Carthamus Lanatus typically takes 90-120 days to mature from seed.
Q: How is Carthamus Lanatus used in traditional medicine?
A: Carthamus Lanatus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat menstrual disorders, promote blood circulation, and reduce inflammation.
Related Plants
– Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower)- Centaurea Cyanus (Cornflower)- Cirsium Vulgare (Common Thistle)
References
– “Carthamus Tinctorius L.” Plants For A Future, 1996-2021, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Carthamus+tinctorius.- “Carthamus Lanatus (L.) Roth.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:187475-1.
