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Description
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon, commonly known as the Chinese Medicinal Plant, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Boraginaceae family. It is native to East Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Korea. This plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat different ailments such as inflammation, fever, and cancer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithospermum |
Appearance
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon can grow up to 60 cm in height and has lanceolate leaves that are about 10-15 cm long. Its flowers are small, trumpet-shaped, and can be white, pink, or purple. The plant produces red roots that are used in traditional Chinese medicine.
Care Guide
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon can grow in different soil types, but it prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7. It needs to be watered regularly, especially during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding organic matter to the soil can help improve its growth. The plant prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures from -20°C to 40°C. It is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon can be susceptible to root rot, powdery mildew, and spider mites. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation. Insecticidal soap can be used to control spider mites.
Habitat
Lithospermum Erythrorhizon can be found in different habitats such as meadows, hillsides, and forests. It is native to East Asia but has been introduced to other parts of the world such as North America and Europe.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Lithospermum Erythrorhizon?
A: Lithospermum Erythrorhizon has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat inflammation, fever, and cancer.
Q: What is the ideal pH for growing Lithospermum Erythrorhizon?
A: The plant prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6-7.
Q: What are the common pests that affect Lithospermum Erythrorhizon?
A: Spider mites can be a common pest that affects this plant.
Q: What are the hardiness zones for growing Lithospermum Erythrorhizon?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
- Lithospermum officinale
- Lithospermum canescens
- Lithospermum caroliniense
References
- “Lithospermum Erythrorhizon.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282726&isprofile=0&basic=lithospermum.
- “Lithospermum Erythrorhizon.” Plants for a Future. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lithospermum+erythrorhizon.
- “Lithospermum Erythrorhizon.” Royal Horticultural Society. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11229/Lithospermum-erythrorhizon/Details.
