Blumea Lanceolaria

Description

Blumea Lanceolaria, also known as Blumea Balsamifera, is a perennial herb that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. This plant is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, and rheumatism.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Blumea Lanceolaria has a shrubby appearance, with a height that can reach up to 2 meters. Its leaves are lance-shaped, with a length of approximately 10 cm and a width of 2 cm. The plant’s flowers are small and yellow, with a diameter of around 6 mm. They grow in clusters on the ends of the branches.

Care Guide

Water

Blumea Lanceolaria requires moderate watering. It is best to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. During the growing season, water the plant once or twice a week. In the winter, reduce the watering frequency to once every two weeks.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth.

Soil

Blumea Lanceolaria prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH range of 6.0 to 7.5 is ideal.

Sunlight

This plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can lead to weak growth and fewer flowers.

Hardiness Zones

Blumea Lanceolaria is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Blumea Lanceolaria is susceptible to aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also prone to fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Habitat

Blumea Lanceolaria is commonly found in open fields, meadows, and along roadsides in Southeast Asia. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Blumea Lanceolaria be grown indoors?

A: Yes, Blumea Lanceolaria can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is kept in well-drained soil.

Q: How often should Blumea Lanceolaria be fertilized?

A: Blumea Lanceolaria should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.

Q: What is the ideal pH range for Blumea Lanceolaria?

A: The ideal pH range for Blumea Lanceolaria is 6.0 to 7.5.

Q: What are the traditional medicinal uses of Blumea Lanceolaria?

A: Blumea Lanceolaria is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat cough, fever, and rheumatism.

Related Plants

• Blumea Aurita
• Blumea Balsamifera
• Blumea Camphorata
• Blumea Paniculata

References

• “Blumea lanceolaria.” Tropical Plants Database, Ken Fern.
• “Blumea lanceolaria.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
• “Blumea lanceolaria.” Floridata, Steve Christman.