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Description
Urena Lobata, commonly known as Caesarweed or Burnut, is a species of flowering plant in the Malvaceae family. It is native to tropical America but can now be found in many other regions of the world. This plant can grow up to six feet tall and has a woody stem with branches that have soft hairs. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and green with serrated edges. Urena Lobata produces small, pink or white flowers that bloom in clusters and have five petals. After flowering, it produces a fruit that is a burr covered in hooked spines.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malvales |
| Family | Malvaceae |
| Genus | Urena |
Appearance
Urena Lobata is a tall plant with a woody stem and soft, hairy branches. Its leaves are simple, alternate, and green with serrated edges. The plant produces small, pink or white flowers that bloom in clusters and have five petals. Its fruit is a burr covered in hooked spines that can stick to clothing or animal fur. This plant produces a lot of seeds, which can spread easily and contribute to its weed-like behavior.
Care Guide
Urena Lobata is a hardy plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips for keeping it healthy:- Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly during dry spells.- Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer. Follow the package instructions.- Soil: This plant can grow in a variety of soil types but prefers well-draining soil. Add compost or organic matter to improve soil quality.- Sunlight: Urena Lobata prefers full sun but can also grow in partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: This plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 8-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Urena Lobata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:- Aphids: These small, soft-bodied insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause it to wilt. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause yellowing and webbing on the leaves. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.- Root rot: This disease is caused by overwatering and can cause the plant to wilt and die. Improve drainage and reduce watering to prevent this.
Habitat
Urena Lobata is native to tropical America but can now be found in many other regions of the world, including Africa, Asia, and Australia. It prefers warm, humid climates and can grow in a variety of soil types. This plant is often found in disturbed areas, such as roadsides, fields, and waste places.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Urena Lobata a weed or an ornamental plant?
A: Urena Lobata is considered a weed in many regions due to its ability to spread quickly and compete with other plants. However, it can also be grown as an ornamental plant for its attractive flowers and foliage.
Q: Can Urena Lobata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Urena Lobata can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its size and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Is Urena Lobata poisonous?
A: No, Urena Lobata is not poisonous. However, its burrs can be very irritating to the skin and eyes.
Q: Can Urena Lobata be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Urena Lobata can be grown from seeds. The seeds should be sown in the spring in a well-draining soil mix.
Related Plants
– Abutilon theophrasti (velvetleaf)- Hibiscus syriacus (rose of Sharon)- Malva neglecta (common mallow)- Sida acuta (common wireweed)- Sida rhombifolia (arrowleaf sida)
References
– “Urena lobata.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286954.- “Urena lobata.” PlantNet, plantnet.org/en/illustration/urena-lobata.html.- “Caesarweed – Urena lobata.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp290.
