Contents
Description
Centella Lanata, also known as “Woolly Centella,” is a perennial herb native to Asia and Africa. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is commonly used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. The plant has small, white or pink flowers that bloom in the summer and is known for its unique woolly appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Centella |
Appearance
Centella Lanata has small, rounded leaves that are covered in fine white hairs, giving the plant a woolly appearance. The leaves are light green in color and can range from 1-4 cm in diameter. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads out to form a dense mat-like ground cover. In the summer, small white or pink flowers bloom on short stems.
Care Guide
Water
Centella Lanata prefers moist but well-draining soil. Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Soil
Centella Lanata prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH.
Sunlight
The plant prefers partial shade to full shade and can tolerate low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones
Centella Lanata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pests
Centella Lanata is relatively pest-free, but may be susceptible to mealybugs and spider mites.
Diseases
The plant may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered or if it is planted in soil that does not drain well.
Habitat
Centella Lanata is native to Asia and Africa and can be found growing in damp areas such as riverbanks, marshes, and wetlands.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Centella Lanata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a pot with well-draining soil and placed in a location with bright, indirect light.
Q: Is Centella Lanata edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible and is commonly used in traditional medicine and cuisine.
Q: How often should Centella Lanata be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season (spring and summer).
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Centella Lanata?
A: The best time to plant the herb is in the spring, after the last frost has passed.
Related Plants
– Centella Asiatica (Gotu Kola)- Hydrocotyle Verticillata (Whorled Pennywort)- Hydrocotyle Leucocephala (Brazilian Pennywort)
References
– “Centella Lanata (Woolly Centella).” PlantZAfrica.com, South African National Biodiversity Institute, https://www.plantzafrica.com/plantcd/centellalan.htm.- “Centella Lanata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280371&isprofile=0&.- “Centella Lanata (L.) Urban.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:84121-1.
