Melampyrum

Description

Melampyrum is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. It is commonly known as cow-wheat due to its resemblance to wheat, but it is not a grass. Melampyrum species are distributed across the temperate zones of the world, with most species found in Europe and Asia. They are annual or perennial herbs that grow up to 120 cm tall and have yellow, white, or purple flowers.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Melampyrum plants have lance-shaped leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers are tubular and have two lips, with the upper lip being hooded and the lower lip having three lobes. The flowers are typically yellow, white, or purple and are arranged in spikes or clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit is a capsule that contains many small seeds.

Care Guide

Melampyrum plants prefer well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter. They require moderate watering and do not tolerate drought or standing water. Fertilization should be done sparingly, as too much fertilizer can cause the plants to grow too quickly and become leggy. Melampyrum plants require full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Melampyrum plants are generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, they can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. These problems can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil, and by improving air circulation around the plants.

Habitat

Melampyrum plants are found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and forests. They prefer soils that are rich in nutrients and organic matter, and can grow in both sunny and shaded areas.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the origin of the name Melampyrum?

A: The name Melampyrum comes from the Greek words melas, meaning black, and pyros, meaning wheat. This refers to the black seeds of some species that resemble wheat grains.

Q: Are Melampyrum plants toxic to humans or animals?

A: There is no evidence that Melampyrum plants are toxic to humans or animals.

Q: Can Melampyrum plants be grown in containers?

A: Yes, Melampyrum plants can be grown in containers as long as they have enough room for their roots to grow and receive adequate water and nutrients.

Q: Are Melampyrum plants easy to grow?

A: Melampyrum plants are generally easy to grow as long as they are given the right conditions of soil, water, and sunlight.

Related Plants

• Rhinanthus
• Bartsia
• Castilleja
• Pedicularis

References

• The Plant List. (2021). Melampyrum. Retrieved from http://www.theplantlist.org/1.1/browse/A/Orobanchaceae/Melampyrum/
• Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Melampyrum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287285&isprofile=0&
• Flora of North America. (2019). Melampyrum. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=118052