Contents
Description
Thesium Utile, also known as useful broomrape, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Santalaceae family. This plant is native to Europe and grows in dry, rocky habitats. It produces small, pale green flowers that bloom from May to August. The stem is erect and branching, with a height of 10-40 cm. The leaves are small and scale-like, and the flowers are hermaphroditic. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Genus | Thesium |
Appearance
Thesium Utile has an erect, branching stem that can grow up to 40 cm in height. The leaves are small and scale-like, and the flowers are pale green and hermaphroditic. The fruit is a capsule that contains small seeds. This plant is not showy, but it has a unique appearance that is suitable for rock gardens and dry habitats.
Care Guide
To care for Thesium Utile, you need to provide it with well-draining soil and a location that receives full sun. This plant prefers dry conditions, so avoid overwatering it. Fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Thesium Utile is hardy in USDA zones 5-8, so protect it from frost during the winter months.
Common Pests & Diseases
Thesium Utile is not commonly affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if it is planted in poorly draining soil. To prevent this, make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering it.
Habitat
Thesium Utile is native to Europe and grows in dry, rocky habitats. It can be found in meadows, heathlands, and rocky slopes. This plant is adapted to dry conditions and can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Thesium Utile a showy plant?
A: No, Thesium Utile is not showy, but it has a unique appearance that is suitable for rock gardens and dry habitats.
Q: What is the best soil to use for Thesium Utile?
A: Thesium Utile prefers well-draining soil that is not too fertile.
Q: How often should I fertilize Thesium Utile?
A: Fertilize Thesium Utile with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Thesium Utile?
A: Thesium Utile is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Related Plants
- Thesium Alpine
- Thesium Bavarum
- Thesium Chinense
- Thesium Divaricatum
References
- “Thesium Utile” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 24, 2021.
- “Thesium Utile” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed August 24, 2021.
- “Thesium Utile” Flora of North America. Accessed August 24, 2021.
