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Description
Scrophularia Auriculata, commonly known as Water Figwort, is a perennial plant species belonging to the family Scrophulariaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in damp areas, such as riverbanks and wet meadows. The plant can reach up to 1.5 meters in height and has dark green, serrated leaves that grow in opposite pairs. Its flowers are small and tubular, with a deep purple color and bloom from June to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus | Scrophularia |
Appearance
Scrophularia Auriculata is a tall plant with a straight stem and deep green leaves that can grow up to 10 cm long. The leaves are serrated, with the lower ones having a heart-shaped base. The flowers are purple and small and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from June to September, and the flowers are followed by small capsules containing seeds.
Care Guide
Scrophularia Auriculata prefers a damp environment and can grow in partial shade to full sun. It requires moist, well-draining soil and should be fertilized with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9 and can be propagated through seeds or division in the spring.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scrophularia Auriculata is relatively pest-free, but it can be affected by aphids, spider mites, and slugs. It can also be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent pest and disease problems, ensure proper watering, and remove any diseased leaves.
Habitat
Scrophularia Auriculata grows naturally in damp areas, such as riverbanks and wet meadows in Europe and Asia. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of soil types, as long as they are moist and well-draining.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scrophularia Auriculata edible?
A: While some species of Scrophularia are used in traditional medicine, Scrophularia Auriculata is not recommended for consumption.
Q: Can Scrophularia Auriculata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Scrophularia Auriculata can be grown in a container as long as it has enough space for its roots to grow and is kept moist.
Q: What is the medicinal use of Scrophularia Auriculata?
A: Scrophularia Auriculata has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Q: Is Scrophularia Auriculata a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, Scrophularia Auriculata is attractive to bees and butterflies and can help support pollinator populations.
Related Plants
- Scrophularia nodosa
- Scrophularia aurantiaca
- Scrophularia marilandica
- Scrophularia californica
References
- “Scrophularia Auriculata.” Plants For A Future. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Scrophularia+auriculata
- “Scrophularia Auriculata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280475&isprofile=0&basic=scrophularia
- “Scrophularia Auriculata.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 10 Sept. 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/12021/scrophularia-auriculata/details
