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Description
Ammi Majus, commonly known as the Queen Anne’s Lace, is a delicate and beautiful plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is a biennial or annual herb that has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental value and medicinal properties. The plant is native to the Mediterranean region but has been introduced to other parts of the world and has become naturalized in some areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Ammi |
Appearance
Ammi Majus is a tall, slender plant that can grow up to 1.2 meters in height. It has finely dissected leaves that are dark green in color and feathery in texture. The plant produces large, flat-topped clusters of small white flowers that resemble lace. The flowers bloom in mid-summer and continue into early fall. The plant’s delicate appearance and white flowers make it a popular choice for both gardens and floral arrangements.
Care Guide
Ammi Majus is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements:
- Water: The plant prefers moist soil but does not tolerate waterlogging. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilizer, but a small amount of balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season can help promote healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause it to become leggy and weak.
- Hardiness Zones: Ammi Majus is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ammi Majus is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some common issues:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing it to weaken and become stunted. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Whiteflies: These tiny insects can cause yellowing and wilting of the plant. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating to form on the leaves of the plant. Use a fungicide to control it.
Habitat
Ammi Majus is native to the Mediterranean region but has been introduced to other parts of the world, including Europe, Asia, and North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and waste places. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ammi Majus an annual or a perennial plant?
A: Ammi Majus can be either an annual or a biennial plant. It usually blooms in its second year of growth.
Q: Can I grow Ammi Majus in a container?
A: Yes, Ammi Majus can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and has good drainage.
Q: Can I use Ammi Majus in floral arrangements?
A: Yes, Ammi Majus is commonly used in floral arrangements because of its delicate appearance and white, lacy flowers.
Q: Is Ammi Majus toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Ammi Majus is toxic to pets, but it is always a good idea to keep pets away from plants that they may be tempted to chew on.
Related Plants
- Carrot (Daucus carota)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Dill (Anethum graveolens)
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Ammi majus. Retrieved from http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org
- RHS. (n.d.). Ammi majus. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/206308/Ammi-majus/Details
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture. (n.d.). Ammi majus. Retrieved from https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/queen-annes-lace.aspx
