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Description
Lithospermum Latifolium, commonly known as Broadleaf Stoneseed or American Gromwell, is a species of flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and can grow up to 3 feet tall. The stem of this plant is erect with many branches, and it produces small white or yellow flowers that bloom from May to August. The fruit of Lithospermum Latifolium is small and nut-like, containing four seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithospermum |
| Species | Latifolium |
Appearance
Lithospermum Latifolium has broad, lance-shaped leaves that are up to 4 inches long and 1.5 inches wide. The leaves are hairy and have a rough texture. The flowers of this plant are small, measuring only about 1/4 inch in diameter, and they are usually white or yellow with five petals. The fruit of Lithospermum Latifolium is a small nut-like structure that contains four seeds. This plant typically blooms from May to August.
Care Guide
To care for Lithospermum Latifolium, you should plant it in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. This plant prefers full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. During the growing season, you can fertilize Lithospermum Latifolium with a balanced fertilizer every two weeks. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lithospermum Latifolium is generally not prone to pests or diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by spider mites, aphids, or leaf spot. If you notice any signs of infestation or disease, you can treat the plant with an insecticide or fungicide as needed.
Habitat
Lithospermum Latifolium is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. This plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lithospermum Latifolium a perennial or an annual plant?
A: Lithospermum Latifolium is a perennial plant that can live for several years.
Q: Can Lithospermum Latifolium tolerate drought?
A: While Lithospermum Latifolium prefers moist soil, it can tolerate some drought once established.
Q: Does Lithospermum Latifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Lithospermum Latifolium is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Lithospermum Latifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Lithospermum Latifolium can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives enough sunlight.
Related Plants
– Lithospermum Canescens- Lithospermum Incisum- Lithospermum Ruderale- Lithospermum Officinale- Lithospermum Erythrorhizon
References
– “Lithospermum latifolium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=f240- “Broadleaf Stoneseed.” USDA Forest Service. https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/litlat/all.html- “Lithospermum latifolium.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=LILA3
