Arnica cordifolia, commonly known as heartleaf arnica, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, forest clearings, and rocky slopes throughout the western United States and Canada.
Contents
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Arnica |
Appearance
Arnica cordifolia grows up to 30 centimeters tall and has a basal rosette of heart-shaped leaves that are 5 to 15 centimeters long. The stem is erect and hairy, and it bears a single yellow flower head that is 3 to 5 centimeters in diameter. The flower head consists of both ray and disk florets, and it blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Arnica cordifolia prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It grows best in full sun to partial shade and requires regular watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of compost or aged manure in the spring can be beneficial. This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Arnica cordifolia is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases in wet conditions. Powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot are common fungal diseases that can affect this plant. Aphids and spider mites can also be a problem, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Arnica cordifolia is native to North America and can be found in moist meadows, forest clearings, and rocky slopes throughout the western United States and Canada. It grows best in cool, moist environments and is often found in high-altitude areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Arnica cordifolia poisonous?
A: No, Arnica cordifolia is not poisonous. However, it should not be consumed as it can cause skin irritation and other adverse effects.
Q: Can Arnica cordifolia be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Arnica cordifolia can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and provide adequate drainage.
Q: How often should Arnica cordifolia be watered?
A: Arnica cordifolia should be watered regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. The frequency of watering will depend on the climate and soil conditions.
Q: Can Arnica cordifolia be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Arnica cordifolia has been used in traditional medicine to treat bruises, sprains, and other injuries. However, it should be used with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Related Plants
- Arnica chamissonis
- Arnica latifolia
- Arnica montana
References
- Arnica cordifolia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/arnica_cordifolia.shtml
- Arnica cordifolia. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=ARCO11
- Heartleaf Arnica. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ARCO11
