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Description
Linnaea is a genus of flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae. It contains only one species, Linnaea borealis, which is commonly known as twinflower. It is a small, creeping, evergreen perennial that is native to the boreal forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. The plant has a very delicate and sweet fragrance and is often used in perfumes and aromatherapy. It is also a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful blooms.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Linnaea |
Appearance
Linnaea borealis is a low-growing, trailing plant that reaches up to six inches in height. Its leaves are evergreen, rounded, and shiny, and are about half an inch in diameter. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are pink or white, tubular, and bell-shaped, and are about a quarter inch long. They are arranged in pairs and are held above the leaves on short stalks. The plant blooms from May to July.
Care Guide
Linnaea borealis is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but care should be taken not to overwater as this can lead to root rot. Fertilizer can be applied in the spring and summer to promote healthy growth. The plant prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some sunlight. It is hardy in zones 2-7.
Common Pests & Diseases
Linnaea borealis is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but can occasionally be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap and fungicides. Care should be taken not to overwater the plant, as this can lead to root rot.
Habitat
Linnaea borealis is native to the boreal forests of North America, Europe, and Asia. It is found in moist, shady areas, such as woodland edges, stream banks, and damp meadows. The plant is often used as ground cover in woodland gardens and shady rock gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Linnaea borealis poisonous?
A: No, Linnaea borealis is not poisonous.
Q: Can Linnaea borealis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Linnaea borealis can be grown indoors in a bright, cool room.
Q: How often should I fertilize Linnaea borealis?
A: Linnaea borealis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Q: Can Linnaea borealis be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Linnaea borealis can be propagated by taking softwood cuttings in the spring.
Related Plants
- Abelia
- Clematis
- Honeysuckle
- Wintergreen
References
- “Linnaea borealis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 12 August 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277121&isprofile=0&basic=Linnaea>
- “Linnaea borealis.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 12 August 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:249691-1>
- “Twinflower – Linnaea borealis.” Minnesota Wildflowers. Accessed 12 August 2021. <https://www.minnesotawildflowers.info/flower/twinflower>
