Adoxa
Contents
Description
Adoxa is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the Adoxaceae family. It comprises only one species, Adoxa moschatellina, which is commonly known as the muskroot or townhall clock. The plant is native to the temperate regions of Europe, including the United Kingdom, and Asia. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 20 cm tall and 30 cm wide.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Adoxaceae |
| Genus | Adoxa |
Appearance
The Adoxa plant has a basal rosette of leaves that are divided into three parts, with each part having a rounded lobed shape. The leaves are hairy and toothed. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that grow in clusters of four, forming a ball-like structure. The flowers have no petals, but they have four sepals that are fused together. The fruit of the plant is a small, reddish-brown nut that is enclosed in the persistent calyx.
Care Guide
Adoxa is a low-maintenance plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so water it regularly but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilization: Adoxa does not require regular fertilization, but you can apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring to promote growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Adoxa grows best in partial shade to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Adoxa is generally not susceptible to serious pests or diseases. However, it may be affected by:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause stunted growth. You can control them by spraying the plant with a strong jet of water or by using insecticidal soap.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves. You can control it by removing infected leaves and improving air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Adoxa is a woodland plant that grows in damp, shady places, such as hedgerows, banks, and woods. It prefers neutral to alkaline soils and can often be found growing near streams and rivers. The plant blooms from April to June.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Adoxa an endangered species?
A: No, Adoxa is not an endangered species.
Q: Can Adoxa be grown indoors?
A: Adoxa is a woodland plant that prefers to grow outdoors in its natural habitat.
Q: What is the medicinal use of Adoxa?
A: Adoxa has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as fevers, headaches, and rheumatism.
Q: How can I propagate Adoxa?
A: Adoxa can be propagated by seed or division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Sambucus nigra (elderberry)
- Viburnum opulus (guelder rose)
- Viburnum tinus (laurustinus)
References
- Adoxa moschatellina. (n.d.). Retrieved February 15, 2022, from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/1117/Adoxa-moschatellina/Details
- Adoxa moschatellina. (n.d.). Retrieved February 15, 2022, from https://www.gbif.org/species/2967913
- Adoxa moschatellina. (n.d.). Retrieved February 15, 2022, from https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Adoxa+moschatellina
