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Description
Gillenia Trifoliata, commonly known as Indian Physic, Bowman’s-root or American Ipecac, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is native to eastern North America and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. It has an extensive root system and produces delicate white or pink flowers that bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Genus | Gillenia |
Appearance
Gillenia Trifoliata has a slender, erect stem that is covered with fine hairs. Its leaves are typically trifoliate, with each leaflet measuring up to 10 cm long and 6 cm wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have serrated edges. The flowers are usually white, but they can also be pink, and they have five petals that measure up to 2 cm long. The blooms are arranged in a panicle-like inflorescence that can measure up to 25 cm long.
Care Guide
Gillenia Trifoliata is relatively easy to care for and is a low-maintenance plant. Here are some tips to help you care for your Indian Physic:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, ensuring that the soil stays moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Indian Physic prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH.
- Sunlight: This plant thrives in partial shade to full sun, but it prefers partial shade in hotter climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Gillenia Trifoliata is hardy in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Gillenia Trifoliata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be prone to powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these problems, ensure that your plant is growing in well-draining soil and is not overcrowded. If you do notice signs of powdery mildew or rust, treat your plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Gillenia Trifoliata is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can tolerate partial shade to full sun.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Gillenia Trifoliata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Indian Physic can be grown in containers, but you will need to ensure that the soil stays moist and that the plant receives enough sunlight.
Q: When is the best time to propagate Gillenia Trifoliata?
A: The best time to propagate Indian Physic is in the spring or early summer by dividing the roots.
Q: What is the average lifespan of Gillenia Trifoliata?
A: Gillenia Trifoliata can live for up to 20 years with proper care.
Q: Does Indian Physic attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Gillenia Trifoliata is a great plant to attract butterflies and bees to your garden.
Related Plants
- Gillenia stipulata
- Gillenia trifoliata ‘Pink Profusion’
- Gillenia trifoliata ‘Prairie Smoke’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Gillenia trifoliata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f850
- North Carolina State University. (n.d.). Gillenia trifoliata. Retrieved from https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/gillenia-trifoliata/
- University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum. (n.d.). Gillenia trifoliata. Retrieved from https://www.arboretum.wisc.edu/plants/gillenia-trifoliata/
