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Description
Cicuta Bulbifera, also known as Bulb-bearing Water Hemlock, is a poisonous plant species that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to North America and can grow up to 6 feet tall. The plant produces small white flowers in the summer and distinctive bulbils that grow in the leaf axils.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Cicuta |
Appearance
Cicuta Bulbifera has a stout stem that is smooth and hollow. The leaves are finely divided and alternate along the stem. The flowers grow in umbels and are small and white. The plant produces bulbils that are green and round, which grow in the leaf axils. The bulbils can be mistaken for small onions, but they are poisonous and should not be consumed.
Care Guide
Cicuta Bulbifera prefers to grow in moist soil and partial shade. It can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The plant is hardy in zones 3 to 8. It does not require fertilization and can be grown in most types of soil. However, it is important to ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cicuta Bulbifera is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These pests can be controlled by spraying the plant with a mixture of water and dish soap. The plant is also vulnerable to fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring that the plant has good air circulation and is not overwatered.
Habitat
Cicuta Bulbifera is commonly found in wetlands, marshes, and along streams and rivers. It prefers to grow in areas with moist soil and partial shade. The plant is native to North America and can be found in the United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Cicuta Bulbifera poisonous?
A: Yes, Cicuta Bulbifera is poisonous and should not be consumed. The plant contains cicutoxin, which can cause seizures, respiratory failure, and death.
Q: Can Cicuta Bulbifera be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow Cicuta Bulbifera indoors as it requires a moist environment and partial shade, which can be difficult to replicate indoors.
Q: Is Cicuta Bulbifera invasive?
A: Cicuta Bulbifera is not considered an invasive species, but it can spread quickly in wetland areas and compete with native species.
Q: How can I remove Cicuta Bulbifera from my garden?
A: It is important to wear gloves and protective clothing when removing Cicuta Bulbifera as it is poisonous. The plant can be dug up and disposed of in a sealed bag to prevent accidental ingestion.
Related Plants
- Cicuta Douglasii
- Cicuta Maculata
- Cicuta Virosa
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Cicuta bulbifera L. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CIBU
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cicuta bulbifera. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287736&isprofile=0&
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Cicuta bulbifera. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cicuta-bulbifera/
