Contents
Description
Inula Verbascifolia, commonly known as ploughman’s spikenard, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to Europe, particularly in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a stem that is covered with fine hairs.The leaves of Inula Verbascifolia are large, simple, and lanceolate in shape, with a toothed margin. The flowers are yellow, with numerous ray florets surrounding a central disc. They bloom from July to September and attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Inula |
Appearance
Inula Verbascifolia has a tall, upright habit and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The stem is covered with fine hairs and has a slightly woody base. The leaves are large, simple, and lanceolate, with a toothed margin. They are arranged alternately on the stem and have a slightly hairy surface.The flowers of Inula Verbascifolia are yellow, with numerous ray florets surrounding a central disc. They are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem and bloom from July to September. The plant produces small, tufted achenes as fruits.
Care Guide
Inula Verbascifolia is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you grow and care for your ploughman’s spikenard:Water: Inula Verbascifolia prefers moist soil, so water it regularly, especially during dry spells.Fertilization: This plant doesn’t require much fertilization, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in early spring to promote healthy growth.Soil: Inula Verbascifolia prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to leggy growth and fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Inula Verbascifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Inula Verbascifolia is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and rust if grown in overly humid conditions. To prevent these diseases, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Inula Verbascifolia is native to Europe and can be found in the Alps, Pyrenees, and Carpathians. It grows in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. In cultivation, it can be grown in a variety of settings, including borders, cottage gardens, and meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Inula Verbascifolia a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of Inula Verbascifolia attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.Q: How tall does Inula Verbascifolia grow?
A: Inula Verbascifolia can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.Q: Does Inula Verbascifolia require a lot of water?
A: Yes, this plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.Q: What is the hardiness zone for Inula Verbascifolia?
A: Inula Verbascifolia is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants in the Inula genus:
- Inula helenium
- Inula racemosa
- Inula ensifolia
- Inula britannica
References
- “Inula Verbascifolia.” Plants for a Future. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Inula+verbascifolia.
- “Inula Verbascifolia – Ploughman’s Spikenard.” Gardenia. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.gardenia.net/plant/inula-verbascifolia-ploughmans-spikenard.
- “Inula Verbascifolia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 10, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282104&isprofile=0&basic=inula%20verbascifolia.
