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Description
Hydrophyllum Occidentale, commonly known as Western Waterleaf, belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in moist, shady areas such as forests, meadows, and along stream banks. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, with a hairy stem and leaves. The small, bell-shaped flowers are white to pinkish in color and bloom from April to July. The plant’s roots are shallow and fibrous, making it easy to transplant.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Hydrophyllum |
Appearance
Western Waterleaf has a unique appearance with hairy stems and leaves. The leaves are lobed and toothed, with a palmate shape. The flowers grow in clusters on long stems and are bell-shaped, with five petals. They can be white to pinkish in color and have a sweet fragrance. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1.5 feet wide, making it a great addition to a shade garden.
Care Guide
To care for Hydrophyllum Occidentale, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones.Water: Western Waterleaf prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly. However, make sure not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Western Waterleaf prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil. Adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its fertility and drainage.Sunlight: Western Waterleaf prefers partial to full shade. Avoid planting it in direct sunlight as this can cause the leaves to burn.Hardiness Zones: Hydrophyllum Occidentale can grow in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Western Waterleaf is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide good air circulation around the plant and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Hydrophyllum Occidentale is native to North America and can be found in moist, shady areas such as forests, meadows, and along stream banks. It is a great plant for a woodland garden or a shade garden.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Hydrophyllum Occidentale grow in full sun?
A: No, Western Waterleaf prefers partial to full shade.Q: Is Hydrophyllum Occidentale a drought-tolerant plant?
A: No, Western Waterleaf prefers moist soil and is not drought-tolerant.Q: Can Hydrophyllum Occidentale be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Western Waterleaf can be grown in a container as long as it is kept moist and provided with enough shade.Q: Does Hydrophyllum Occidentale attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Western Waterleaf is part of the Hydrophyllum genus, which includes other species such as Hydrophyllum capitatum and Hydrophyllum tenuipes.
References
- “Hydrophyllum Occidentale.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j180.
- “Hydrophyllum Occidentale.” Plant Finder, www.monrovia.com/plant-catalog/plants/1676/western-waterleaf/.
- “Hydrophyllum Occidentale.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/hydrophyllum-occidentale-plant-profile-5073300.
