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Description
Lithospermum Caroliniense, commonly known as Carolina puccoon or wild balsam, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to Eastern North America. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and has yellow to orange tubular flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has lance-shaped leaves that are covered in tiny hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithospermum |
Appearance
Lithospermum Caroliniense has lance-shaped leaves that are 1-4 inches long and 0.25-1 inch wide. The leaves are covered in tiny hairs that give them a rough texture. The plant has yellow to orange tubular flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are 0.5-0.75 inches long and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant can grow up to 2 feet tall and has a branching stem.
Care Guide
Lithospermum Caroliniense prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during its first year of growth. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a year in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithospermum Caroliniense is relatively pest-free but can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is poorly drained. It can also be affected by powdery mildew or leaf spot if the plant is grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Lithospermum Caroliniense is native to Eastern North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lithospermum Caroliniense a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as coughs, colds, and fever.
Q: Can Lithospermum Caroliniense be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is placed in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How often should Lithospermum Caroliniense be watered?
A: The plant is drought-tolerant but requires regular watering during its first year of growth. After that, it can be watered once a week or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: When is the best time to plant Lithospermum Caroliniense?
A: The best time to plant the plant is in the spring after the danger of frost has passed.
Related Plants
- Lithospermum canescens
- Lithospermum incisum
- Lithospermum latifolium
- Lithospermum officinale
References
- USDA Plants Database: Lithospermum Caroliniense
- Gardening Know How: Growing Lithospermum Plants: How To Plant Lithospermum Flowers
- Wildflower Center: Lithospermum Caroliniense
