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Description
Amianthium Muscitoxicum, commonly known as fly poison or eastern fly poison, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the eastern United States. It belongs to the Melanthiaceae family and is known for its toxic properties. The plant produces a compound called lycorine, which is poisonous to insects and mammals alike.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus | Amianthium |
Appearance
Amianthium Muscitoxicum grows up to 3 feet tall and produces a single stem with multiple branches. The leaves are long and narrow, measuring up to 12 inches in length and 1 inch in width. The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers with six petals each. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are followed by small, green fruits that turn brown at maturity.
Care Guide
Amianthium Muscitoxicum is a relatively low-maintenance plant. It prefers well-draining soil and moderate moisture levels. It can tolerate full sun to partial shade but prefers some shade during the hottest part of the day. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Common Pests & Diseases
Amianthium Muscitoxicum is generally not susceptible to pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and slugs. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Amianthium Muscitoxicum grows in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, meadows, and open fields. It prefers moist, well-draining soils and can tolerate a range of pH levels. The plant is native to the eastern United States, from Maine to Georgia and west to Oklahoma and Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Amianthium Muscitoxicum poisonous?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic to both insects and mammals. It contains a compound called lycorine, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Amianthium Muscitoxicum be grown indoors?
A: No, the plant is best grown outdoors in a suitable habitat.
Q: How often should Amianthium Muscitoxicum be watered?
A: The plant prefers moderate moisture levels and should be watered when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Q: Does Amianthium Muscitoxicum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces small, white flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Related Plants
- Amianthium angustifolium
- Amianthium muscaetoxicum var. muscaetoxicum
- Amianthium muscaetoxicum var. texanum
References
- USDA Plants Database: Amianthium Muscitoxicum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Amianthium Muscitoxicum
- Gardenia.net: Amianthium Muscitoxicum
