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Description
Asperula Cristata, commonly known as crested woodruff, is a species of flowering plant in the Rubiaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia, and can be found in woodlands, meadows, and rocky areas. The plant grows up to 50 cm in height and features numerous small white flowers that bloom from May to July. Its leaves are arranged in whorls of four to eight and are hairy, lance-shaped, and up to 5 cm long. The plant’s fragrance is reminiscent of vanilla and is used in perfumes and potpourris.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Asperula |
Appearance
The Asperula Cristata plant has a bushy, spreading habit with stems that are slightly hairy and square-shaped. Its leaves are arranged in whorls of four to eight and are hairy, lance-shaped, and up to 5 cm long. The plant’s flowers are small, white, and star-shaped, and grow in clusters. They bloom from May to July and have a sweet fragrance that is reminiscent of vanilla. The plant’s fruits are small, dry, and brown, and contain two seeds each.
Care Guide
Asperula Cristata is a low-maintenance plant that requires little care once established. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant Asperula Cristata in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full shade, and does best in cooler temperatures with some humidity.
- Hardiness Zones: Asperula Cristata is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Asperula Cristata is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by powdery mildew, root rot, or spider mites if grown in poorly drained soil or in humid conditions. To prevent these issues, ensure that the plant is growing in well-draining soil and avoid overwatering it. If necessary, treat the plant with a fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Asperula Cristata is native to Europe and Asia, where it can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and rocky areas. It prefers partial shade to full shade and cooler temperatures with some humidity. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8 and can be grown in gardens as a groundcover or in containers.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Asperula Cristata?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What type of soil does Asperula Cristata prefer?
A: Plant Asperula Cristata in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Is Asperula Cristata susceptible to any major pests or diseases?
A: Asperula Cristata is not known to be susceptible to any major pests or diseases, but may be affected by powdery mildew, root rot, or spider mites if grown in poorly drained soil or in humid conditions.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Asperula Cristata?
A: Asperula Cristata is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Related Plants
- Asperula odorata
- Asperula tinctoria
- Asperula arvensis
- Asperula orientalis
- Asperula hexaphylla
References
- Flora of China: Asperula Cristata
- RHS: Asperula Cristata
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Asperula Cristata
- Gardenia: Asperula Cristata
