Contents
Description
Tragia Urticifolia is a fascinating plant species that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is also known by the common names “Nettle-leaf Noseburn” and “Stinging Tragia.” The plant has a unique appearance, with stinging hairs covering its leaves and stems. It is native to the southeastern United States, including Florida, Georgia, and Alabama.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Tragia |
Appearance
Tragia Urticifolia is a perennial plant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. Its leaves are alternate, ovate in shape, and have serrated edges. The leaves have stinging hairs, which can cause skin irritation. The plant’s stem is green and hairy, with a reddish hue at the base. The flowers are small, greenish-yellow, and bloom from late spring to early summer. The fruit of the plant is a three-lobed capsule that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Tragia Urticifolia is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, but it can tolerate some dryness.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil but can tolerate a variety of soil types.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tragia Urticifolia can grow in zones 7 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tragia Urticifolia is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. It is crucial to monitor the plant regularly and promptly treat any infestations. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it is essential to ensure the soil is well-draining.
Habitat
Tragia Urticifolia is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in various habitats, including pine woods, oak hammocks, and sandhills. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Tragia Urticifolia be grown indoors?
A: It is not recommended to grow Tragia Urticifolia indoors as it prefers full sun and requires ample space to grow.
Q: How often should I fertilize Tragia Urticifolia?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Tragia Urticifolia tolerate cold temperatures?
A: Tragia Urticifolia can tolerate some cold temperatures but is best grown in zones 7 to 10.
Q: Is Tragia Urticifolia poisonous?
A: Tragia Urticifolia is not toxic to humans but can cause skin irritation due to its stinging hairs.
Related Plants
- Tragia Plukenetii
- Tragia Volubilis
- Tragia Involucrata
- Tragia Nepetifolia
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TRUR4
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/tragia-urticifolia-nettle-leaf-noseburn-stinging-tragia
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/traurt/all.html
