Contents
Description
Datiscaceae is a family of flowering plants that includes only one genus, Datisca. Datisca is a genus of shrubs that are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. They are commonly known as datisca or false hemp. The plants in this family are dioecious, meaning that the male and female flowers are on separate plants.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Datiscaceae |
| Genus | Datisca |
Appearance
Datisca plants are deciduous shrubs that can grow up to 3 meters tall. They have alternate leaves that are deeply lobed and serrated. The leaves are green and can be up to 20 centimeters long. The flowers of Datisca plants are small and inconspicuous, but they are produced in large, showy, terminal panicles. The male flowers are yellow and the female flowers are green. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small, black, shiny seeds.
Care Guide
Datisca plants prefer moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. They require regular watering, especially during dry periods. Fertilize the plants in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Datisca plants prefer full sun to partial shade and are hardy to USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Datisca plants are generally not bothered by pests or diseases. However, they may be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. These can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Datisca plants are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. They can be found in wetlands, along rivers and streams, and in other moist habitats. They are commonly cultivated as ornamental plants in gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Are Datisca plants easy to grow?
A: Yes, Datisca plants are easy to grow and require minimal care.
Q: Can Datisca plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Datisca plants can be grown in containers, but they require a large container and regular watering.
Q: Do Datisca plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Datisca plants attract bees and other pollinators with their large, showy flower panicles.
Q: Are Datisca plants toxic?
A: No, Datisca plants are not toxic to humans or animals.
Related Plants
- Phytolacca americana
- Saponaria officinalis
- Chenopodium album
References
- “Datisca.” Flora of North America. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. <http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=10754>.
- “Datisca.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:30002877-2>.
- “Datisca.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/21058/datisca/details>.
