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Description
Eryngium Humboldtii, also known as Humboldt’s Rattlesnake Root, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to South America, particularly in the Andean regions of Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This species was named after Alexander von Humboldt, a famous Prussian explorer and geographer. Eryngium Humboldtii is highly valued for its medicinal properties, especially in traditional Andean medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Eryngium |
| Species | Eryngium Humboldtii |
Appearance
Eryngium Humboldtii can grow up to 80 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has a rosette of basal leaves that are lance-shaped, deeply lobed, and spiny. The stem is erect, branching, and covered with spiny leaves. The flowers are small, blue or purple, and arranged in dense spherical clusters. They bloom from July to September. The plant produces a taproot that can grow up to 2 meters deep.
Care Guide
Eryngium Humboldtii requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some care tips:
Water
This plant prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Fertilization
Fertilize Eryngium Humboldtii with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to root burn.
Soil
Plant Eryngium Humboldtii in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.
Sunlight
This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and poor flowering.
Hardiness Zones
Eryngium Humboldtii is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 10. In colder zones, it can be grown as an annual or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eryngium Humboldtii is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained or overwatered. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, especially during hot and dry weather. Treat any pest or disease problems with an organic insecticide or fungicide, and ensure that the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Eryngium Humboldtii is native to the Andean regions of South America, where it grows in rocky and mountainous areas at elevations of 3000 to 4000 meters. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Eryngium Humboldtii a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, Eryngium Humboldtii is a great plant for attracting bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Eryngium Humboldtii tolerate drought?
A: Eryngium Humboldtii can tolerate some drought, but it prefers regular watering.
Q: How often should I fertilize Eryngium Humboldtii?
A: Fertilize Eryngium Humboldtii once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can I grow Eryngium Humboldtii in a container?
A: Yes, Eryngium Humboldtii can be grown in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter in colder zones.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Eryngium Humboldtii:
- Eryngium Planum
- Eryngium Alpinum
- Eryngium Foetidum
- Eryngium Yuccifolium
References
- “Eryngium Humboldtii.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed 29 Mar. 2022. <http://pza.sanbi.org/eryngium-humboldtii>.
- “Eryngium Humboldtii.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 29 Mar. 2022. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286550>.
- “Humboldt’s Rattlesnake Root.” High Country Gardens. Accessed 29 Mar. 2022. <https://www.highcountrygardens.com/perennial-plants/eryngium/eryngium-humboldtii>.
