Contents
Description
Melampyrum Sylvaticum, commonly known as Small Cow Wheat, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Orobanchaceae. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, and it is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and forests. Small Cow Wheat can grow up to 50 cm in height and has a square stem, narrow leaves, and yellow flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus | Melampyrum |
Appearance
The leaves of Small Cow Wheat are long and narrow, and they are arranged in opposite pairs along the stem. The flowers are yellow and tubular in shape, and they are arranged in dense clusters at the top of the stem. The fruit of this plant is a capsule that contains several small seeds. Small Cow Wheat has a delicate appearance and can add a touch of elegance to any garden.
Care Guide
Small Cow Wheat is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires minimal attention. It does well in moist, well-drained soil and prefers partial shade. This plant can tolerate full sun, but it will require more water in order to prevent the soil from drying out. Small Cow Wheat does not require fertilization, but adding compost to the soil can help improve its overall health. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Small Cow Wheat is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, it is important to keep an eye out for aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies, which can occasionally infest this plant. These pests can be controlled using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Small Cow Wheat is commonly found in meadows, grasslands, and forests throughout Europe and Asia. This plant prefers moist soil and partial shade, but it can also tolerate full sun. Small Cow Wheat is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Small Cow Wheat a good plant for a beginner gardener?
A: Yes, Small Cow Wheat is an easy-to-care-for plant that is great for beginner gardeners.
Q: How often should I water Small Cow Wheat?
A: Small Cow Wheat prefers moist soil, so it is important to water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: Can Small Cow Wheat be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Small Cow Wheat can be grown in containers, as long as the soil is kept moist and the plant receives partial shade.
Q: Does Small Cow Wheat attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Small Cow Wheat is an important source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Melampyrum Arvense
- Melampyrum Nemorosum
- Melampyrum Pratense
- Melampyrum Saxosum
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/melampyrum_sylvaticum.shtml
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/melampyrum-sylvaticum-small-cow-wheat
- https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/25664/Melampyrum-sylvaticum/Details
