Contents
Description
Calyptocarpus Vialis, commonly known as Horseherb, is a low-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. This plant is native to the southern parts of the United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Florida. Horseherb is a popular choice for ground cover due to its fast-growing and spreading nature. It can grow up to 1 foot tall and 2 feet wide, and it produces small yellow flowers that bloom from spring to fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Calyptocarpus |
| Species | C. vialis |
Appearance
Horseherb has small, bright green leaves that are shaped like a heart. The leaves are arranged opposite each other on the stem, and they are hairy and slightly sticky to the touch. The stem of the plant is thin and wiry, and it can root at the nodes, allowing it to spread and form a dense mat. Horseherb produces small yellow flowers that bloom from spring to fall, and they are followed by small seeds.
Care Guide
Horseherb is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for your Horseherb plant:
- Water: Horseherb is drought-tolerant and can survive with little water. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during periods of drought.
- Fertilization: Horseherb does not require fertilization, but you can apply a slow-release fertilizer in the spring if you want to promote growth.
- Soil: Horseherb prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.
- Sunlight: Horseherb prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate shade but will not grow as vigorously.
- Hardiness Zones: Horseherb is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Horseherb is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by spider mites and aphids. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Horseherb can also be affected by root rot if the soil is too wet, so make sure to provide good drainage.
Habitat
Horseherb is native to the southern parts of the United States, including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Florida. It grows in a variety of habitats, including prairies, woodlands, and disturbed areas. Horseherb is commonly used as a ground cover in gardens and landscaping.
Question and Answer
- Q: Is Horseherb poisonous?
- A: No, Horseherb is not poisonous. It is safe for humans and animals to ingest.
- Q: Can Horseherb be grown in containers?
- A: Yes, Horseherb can be grown in containers as long as the container has good drainage.
- Q: Can Horseherb be used as a lawn alternative?
- A: Yes, Horseherb is a popular choice for lawn alternatives due to its fast-growing and spreading nature.
- Q: How often should I water my Horseherb plant?
- A: Horseherb is drought-tolerant and can survive with little water. However, it will benefit from occasional watering during periods of drought.
Related Plants
- Texas Frogfruit (Phyla nodiflora)
- Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia)
- Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum)
References
- “Calyptocarpus vialis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=CAVI.
- Hall, Michelle. “Calyptocarpus vialis.” University of Florida IFAS Extension. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp627.
- “Horseherb.” Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Accessed August 2, 2021. https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wild/species/horseherb/.
