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Description
Bupleurum stellatum, commonly known as Star Thistle or Starry Bupleurum, is a species of flowering plant in the Apiaceae family. It is a biennial or perennial herb that grows up to 3 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant produces an erect stem with alternate leaves that are green and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small and yellow, arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a dry, brown, flattened schizocarp that splits into two parts when mature.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Bupleurum |
| Species | Bupleurum stellatum |
Appearance
Bupleurum stellatum has an upright growth habit and produces a central stem that branches out into smaller stems. The leaves are lance-shaped and arranged alternately on the stem. They are green and covered with fine hairs. The flowers are small, yellow, and arranged in clusters at the ends of the branches. The fruit is a dry, brown, flattened schizocarp that splits into two parts when mature.
Care Guide
Bupleurum stellatum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sunlight and regular watering, but the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. Bupleurum stellatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Bupleurum stellatum is generally free from serious pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Bupleurum stellatum is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Bupleurum stellatum poisonous?
A: No, Bupleurum stellatum is not poisonous.
Q: Can Bupleurum stellatum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Bupleurum stellatum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.
Q: How often should I water Bupleurum stellatum?
A: Bupleurum stellatum should be watered regularly, but the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: Can Bupleurum stellatum tolerate frost?
A: Yes, Bupleurum stellatum is hardy in USDA zones 4-8 and can tolerate frost.
Related Plants
- Bupleurum chinense
- Bupleurum fruticosum
- Bupleurum longifolium
- Bupleurum rotundifolium
References
- “Bupleurum stellatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276056.
- “Bupleurum stellatum.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55847/.
- “Bupleurum stellatum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed September 20, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14392/Bupleurum-stellatum/Details.
