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Description
Descurainia Sophia, commonly known as Flixweed or Tansy Mustard, is a flowering plant that is native to North America. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is an annual or biennial herb that can grow up to a height of 1 meter. The plant has a long taproot and linear leaves that are divided into small segments. The flowers of Descurainia Sophia are small and yellow with four petals and six stamens. They bloom from April to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Descurainia |
Appearance
Descurainia Sophia has linear leaves that are divided into small segments. The leaves are alternate, with a length of 1-5 cm and a width of 1-3 mm. The plant has yellow flowers with four petals and six stamens. The flowers are small, with a diameter of 2-4 mm. The fruit of the plant is a narrow pod that is 1-2 cm long.
Care Guide
Descurainia Sophia is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight. The plant requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, but can also tolerate drought. It does not require fertilization, but adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve its growth. Descurainia Sophia can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Descurainia Sophia is susceptible to aphids, flea beetles, and caterpillars. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Diseases that can affect Descurainia Sophia include clubroot, downy mildew, and white rust. These diseases can be prevented by practicing crop rotation and using disease-resistant varieties.
Habitat
Descurainia Sophia is native to North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas. It is commonly found in the western United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Descurainia Sophia an invasive species?
A: No, Descurainia Sophia is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can Descurainia Sophia grow in shade?
A: No, Descurainia Sophia prefers full sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Descurainia Sophia?
A: Descurainia Sophia requires regular watering, especially during the growing season, but can also tolerate drought.
Q: Can I grow Descurainia Sophia in a container?
A: Yes, Descurainia Sophia can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space to grow and the soil is well-draining.
Related Plants
- Descurainia incana
- Descurainia pinnata
- Descurainia sophioides
References
- USDA Plants Database: Descurainia Sophia
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Descurainia Sophia
- University of Connecticut Plant Database: Descurainia Sophia
