Lagenophora Petiolata

Description

Lagenophora Petiolata, commonly known as the “Mountain Cabbage” or “Pukio,” is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to South America and can be found in the high-altitude regions of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina. It has a rosette of leaves that grows from a central stem, and it produces a single stem that can grow up to 60cm tall during the blooming season.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Asterales
Family	Asteraceae
Genus	Lagenophora

Appearance

Lagenophora Petiolata has a rosette of leaves that can grow up to 30cm long and 20cm wide. The leaves are dark green, slightly serrated, and have a velvety texture. The flowers of this plant are small and white, and they bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the top of a single stem that can grow up to 60cm tall. The stem is also covered with small leaves that become progressively smaller as they reach the top.

Care Guide

Water: Lagenophora Petiolata requires moderate watering during the growing season. Water the plant when the top of the soil becomes dry to the touch.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Lagenophora Petiolata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should have a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but will not bloom as much.Hardiness Zones: Lagenophora Petiolata is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lagenophora Petiolata is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly draining or if the plant is overwatered. Pests that may affect this plant include aphids and spider mites.

Habitat

Lagenophora Petiolata is native to the high-altitude regions of South America, where it grows in rocky and gravelly soils. It can be found in the Andes Mountains at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 meters.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Lagenophora Petiolata toxic to pets?A: Lagenophora Petiolata is not listed as toxic to pets by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).Q: Can Lagenophora Petiolata be grown in containers?A: Yes, Lagenophora Petiolata can be grown in containers. However, make sure the container has drainage holes and use a well-draining potting mix.Q: How often should I fertilize Lagenophora Petiolata?A: Fertilize Lagenophora Petiolata once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Q: How often should I water Lagenophora Petiolata?A: Water Lagenophora Petiolata when the top of the soil becomes dry to the touch.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Lagenophora genus include:

• Lagenophora stipitata
• Lagenophora pinnatifida
• Lagenophora lanata
• Lagenophora angustifolia

References

• Encyclopedia of Life. (2021). Lagenophora petiolata. Retrieved from https://eol.org/pages/1139831
• Gardenia. (2021). Lagenophora petiolata (Mountain Cabbage). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/lagenophora-petiolata-mountain-cabbage
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Lagenophora petiolata. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j750