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Description
Blephilia Hirsuta, also known as hairy wood mint, is a species of flowering plant in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to eastern North America, ranging from Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and Louisiana. This herbaceous perennial plant grows up to 3 feet tall and is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. It has a square stem that is covered in fine hairs and produces an aromatic scent when crushed. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate in shape, and up to 3 inches long. The flowers are small and arranged in tight clusters at the end of the stems. They bloom from June to August and are pink to lavender in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Blephilia |
| Species | Blephilia Hirsuta |
Appearance
Blephilia Hirsuta has a distinctive appearance with its square stem covered in fine hairs and ovate to lanceolate leaves. The leaves range in color from green to purple and have toothed margins. The flowers are small and arranged in tight clusters at the top of the stems. They are pink to lavender in color and bloom from June to August. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and requires full to partial sunlight for optimal growth.
Care Guide
To care for Blephilia Hirsuta, it is important to provide it with adequate water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. This plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand. It requires regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. This plant requires full to partial sunlight for optimal growth and can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Blephilia Hirsuta is a relatively disease-resistant plant, but it can still be affected by certain pests and diseases. Some common pests include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Some common diseases include powdery mildew and rust. These diseases can be prevented by providing adequate air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Blephilia Hirsuta is native to eastern North America and can be found in woodlands, meadows, and prairies. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight. This plant is an important food source for bees and other pollinators and is also used in traditional medicine for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Blephilia Hirsuta be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Blephilia Hirsuta can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough to accommodate the plant’s size and have adequate drainage.
Q: Is Blephilia Hirsuta toxic to pets?
A: No, Blephilia Hirsuta is not toxic to pets or humans.
Q: How often should I fertilize Blephilia Hirsuta?
A: Fertilize Blephilia Hirsuta once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Blephilia Hirsuta?
A: Blephilia Hirsuta can tolerate a range of hardiness zones from 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Blephilia ciliata
- Blephilia hirsuta
- Blephilia lanceolata
- Blephilia purpurea
References
- “Blephilia hirsuta.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=281640.
- “Hairy Wood Mint.” Illinois Wildflowers, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/savanna/plants/hairy_woodmint.htm.
- “Blephilia hirsuta.” Plant Finder, www.gardencentermarketing.com/plant-database/blephilia-hirsuta/.
