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Description
Actaea Pachypoda, commonly known as Doll’s Eyes, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to the eastern part of North America, from Canada to Florida. This plant usually grows up to 60 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has white flowers that bloom in spring, followed by distinctive fruit clusters that resemble small white berries with black dots.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Actaea |
Appearance
Actaea Pachypoda has a unique appearance that makes it stand out in any garden. Its leaves are deeply lobed and toothed, with a glossy green color. The flowers are white, with a diameter of about 1 cm, and they bloom in late spring. The fruit clusters are round and about 1 cm in diameter, with white berries that have black dots. However, the berries are poisonous and can cause serious health problems if ingested.
Care Guide
Actaea Pachypoda is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of it:
Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, just before the plant starts to grow. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to weak growth and susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Soil: This plant prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Sunlight: Actaea Pachypoda prefers partial shade to full shade. It can tolerate some sunlight, but too much direct sunlight can scorch its leaves.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Actaea Pachypoda is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. To prevent these diseases, avoid over-watering and provide good air circulation around the plant. If you notice any signs of disease, remove the affected leaves and treat the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Actaea Pachypoda is native to the eastern part of North America, where it can be found in moist woods, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Actaea Pachypoda toxic?
A: Yes, the berries of Actaea Pachypoda are poisonous and can cause serious health problems if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Actaea Pachypoda?
A: Water Actaea Pachypoda regularly, especially during dry spells. However, make sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the best soil type for Actaea Pachypoda?
A: Actaea Pachypoda prefers well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. However, it can tolerate a wide range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Actaea Pachypoda?
A: Actaea Pachypoda is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Actaea racemosa
- Actaea simplex
- Actaea spicata
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/actaea_pachypoda.shtml
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/dolls-eyes/dolls-eyes-plant.htm
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=289950
