Contents
Description
Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum, also known as Mountain Cow Parsnip or Giant Hogweed, is a biennial or perennial plant that can grow up to 2-4 meters in height. It belongs to the Apiaceae family and is native to Europe and Asia. The plant has a stout stem with purple spots and large leaves that can grow up to 1.5 meters in diameter. It produces white flowers in the summer, followed by large seed heads that can reach up to 10 cm in diameter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Heracleum |
Appearance
The leaves of Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum are deeply lobed and toothed, with a rough texture. The stem is hollow and can be up to 10 cm in diameter, with purple blotches and bristles. The flowers are small and white, arranged in large, umbrella-like clusters that can reach up to 50 cm in diameter. The plant produces large, oval-shaped seed heads that can be up to 10 cm in diameter and are covered in bristles. The plant can grow up to 2-4 meters in height and 1.5 meters in diameter.
Care Guide
Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types but prefers loamy soil. The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods, and benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer. It is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and treatment with insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control these pests. Fungal diseases such as leaf spot and stem rot can also occur in damp conditions. Good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering can help prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum is native to Europe and Asia and can be found in meadows, forests, and along riverbanks. It prefers moist, well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant contains sap that can cause skin irritation and blistering.
Q: Can Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties.
Q: Is Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum invasive?
A: Yes, the plant can be invasive in some areas and should be planted with caution.
Q: How often should Heracleum Sphondylium Subsp. Montanum be fertilized?
A: The plant benefits from regular fertilization with a balanced fertilizer, applied every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Heracleum mantegazzianum (Giant Hogweed)
- Heracleum maximum (Cow Parsnip)
- Heracleum lanatum (Cow Parsnip)
- Heracleum sphondylium (Common Hogweed)
References
- “Heracleum sphondylium subsp. montanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287963.
- “Heracleum sphondylium subsp. montanum.” Plants for a Future. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Heracleum+sphondylium+montanum.
- “Heracleum sphondylium subsp. montanum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14653/Heracleum-sphondylium-subsp-montanum/Details.
