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Description
Parthenium Auriculatum, also known as Wild Feverfew, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to India, but it can also be found in other parts of Southeast Asia. The plant can grow up to 1 meter tall and has a bushy appearance. Its leaves are alternate, simple, and have a serrated edge. Parthenium Auriculatum produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters from late summer to early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Parthenium |
Appearance
Parthenium Auriculatum has a bushy appearance with alternate, simple, and serrated leaves that are approximately 10 cm long. The leaves are dark green in color and have a rough texture. The plant produces small, white, and fragrant flowers that bloom in clusters from late summer to early fall. The flowers have yellow centers and are approximately 1 cm in diameter. The stem of the plant is erect, branching, and can grow up to 1 meter tall.
Care Guide
Parthenium Auriculatum is a low maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Parthenium Auriculatum prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parthenium Auriculatum is susceptible to some pests and diseases:
- Pests: Aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies can infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Diseases: The plant can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and stem rot. Avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Parthenium Auriculatum is native to India, but it can also be found in other parts of Southeast Asia. The plant grows well in warm and humid climates and prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Parthenium Auriculatum a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, the plant has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments such as fever, headaches, and skin diseases.
Q: Can Parthenium Auriculatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: How often should I fertilize Parthenium Auriculatum?
A: Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: Is Parthenium Auriculatum an invasive species?
A: Yes, the plant is considered an invasive species in some parts of the world such as Australia and the United States.
Related Plants
- Parthenium Hysterophorus
- Parthenium Integrifolium
- Parthenium Incanum
References
- “Parthenium Auriculatum – Wild Feverfew.” World of Flowering Plants. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://worldoffloweringplants.com/parthenium-auriculatum-wild-feverfew/.
- “Parthenium Auriculatum (Wild Feverfew).” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/wild-feverfew/wild-feverfew-care.htm.
- “Parthenium Auriculatum.” Plant Village. Accessed August 13, 2021. https://www.plantvillage.org/en/topics/parthenium-auriculatum.
