Contents
Description
Scutellaria Mexicana, commonly known as Mexican skullcap, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to Mexico and Central America and can grow up to 1.5 meters tall. The stem is square-shaped and has a green color. The leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges. The flowers are small and tubular, with a light purple color. The plant has a unique shape, with the flowers arranged in whorls on spikes at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Scutellaria |
Appearance
Mexican skullcap has a unique appearance that sets it apart from other plants. The stem is square-shaped and has a green color. The leaves are opposite, lance-shaped, and have serrated edges. They are a dark green color and have a velvety texture. The flowers are small and tubular, with a light purple color. They are arranged in whorls on spikes at the top of the stem. Mexican skullcap can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Care Guide
Mexican skullcap is easy to care for and is a great choice for beginner gardeners. Here are some tips for caring for Mexican skullcap:- Water: Mexican skullcap prefers well-draining soil and should be watered regularly. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: Mexican skullcap does not require fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.- Soil: Mexican skullcap prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: Mexican skullcap prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Mexican skullcap is hardy in zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mexican skullcap is generally pest and disease-resistant, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. Powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide, while spider mites can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Mexican skullcap is native to Mexico and Central America and can be found growing in meadows, prairies, and rocky areas. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mexican skullcap safe for pets?
A: Mexican skullcap is non-toxic to pets and humans.
Q: Can Mexican skullcap be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Mexican skullcap can be grown in containers as long as they have good drainage.
Q: How often should Mexican skullcap be fertilized?
A: Mexican skullcap does not require fertilizer, but you can add a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if desired.
Q: How tall can Mexican skullcap grow?
A: Mexican skullcap can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Related Plants
– Scutellaria lateriflora (Mad-Dog Skullcap)- Scutellaria incana (Hoary Skullcap)- Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese Skullcap)
References
– “Scutellaria Mexicana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j730.- “Mexican Skullcap.” Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, aggie-horticulture.tamu.edu/archives/parsons/publications/herbarticles/skullcap.html.
