Contents
Description
Hoita Orbicularis, commonly known as the round-leaved pennywort, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Umbelliferae family. The plant is native to the Himalayas, specifically in China, Nepal, and Bhutan, and can also be found in the northeastern region of India. It is a popular plant in traditional Chinese medicine and is believed to have various medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Hoita |
Appearance
The Hoita Orbicularis plant has a creeping growth habit and typically grows up to 5-10 cm in height. Its leaves are round, hence its common name, and can grow up to 2-3 cm in diameter. The leaves are dark green in color and have a shiny appearance. The plant produces small white flowers in umbels, which bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are followed by small, brown, oblong fruits.
Care Guide
Hoita Orbicularis is a low maintenance plant and can be easily grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during the hot summer months.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization, but you can use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season if desired.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade, although it can tolerate some direct sunlight in the morning or evening.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Hoita Orbicularis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Some pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Hoita Orbicularis is commonly found in humid, shady areas such as forests, meadows, and along streams. It is native to the Himalayas, specifically in China, Nepal, and Bhutan, and can also be found in the northeastern region of India. The plant prefers moist soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Hoita Orbicularis poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous and is safe to handle.
Q: Can Hoita Orbicularis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight.
Q: Can Hoita Orbicularis be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Can Hoita Orbicularis be used in cooking?
A: No, the plant is not commonly used in cooking.
Related Plants
- Hoita macrostachya
- Hoita longipes
- Hoita brachyphylla
- Hoita yagiharana
References
- Flora of China. (n.d.). Hoita Orbicularis. http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=2&taxon_id=242316697
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Hoita Orbicularis. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282241&isprofile=0
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. (n.d.). Hoita Orbicularis. https://www.rbge.org.uk/plants/12125/hoita-orbicularis/
