Contents
Description
Centaurium Tenuiflorum, also known as slender centaury or lesser centaury, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the family Gentianaceae. It is native to Europe and is commonly found growing in meadows, pastures, and grasslands. The plant has a long history of medicinal uses, particularly in the treatment of digestive disorders and fever.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Centaurium |
Appearance
Centaurium Tenuiflorum is a small annual plant that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a slender stem with small, narrow leaves that are arranged in opposite pairs. The plant produces small, pink or lilac-colored flowers that are star-shaped and have five petals. The flowers are usually about 1 cm in diameter and bloom from May to September.
Care Guide
Centaurium Tenuiflorum is a relatively easy plant to care for. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant needs to be watered regularly, but it is important to avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Fertilization is not necessary, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
The plant is hardy in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Centaurium Tenuiflorum is generally not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by powdery mildew and leaf spot if the plant is not properly cared for. These diseases can be treated with a fungicide. The plant may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Centaurium Tenuiflorum is native to Europe and is commonly found growing in meadows, pastures, and grasslands. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun exposure, but it can also tolerate partial shade. The plant is adapted to a variety of soil types, including clay, loam, and sand.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Centaurium Tenuiflorum grow in containers?
A: Yes, Centaurium Tenuiflorum can grow in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and adequate watering.
Q: Is Centaurium Tenuiflorum toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Centaurium Tenuiflorum is toxic to pets.
Q: How often should Centaurium Tenuiflorum be fertilized?
A: Centaurium Tenuiflorum does not need to be fertilized regularly, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring can help promote healthy growth.
Q: Can Centaurium Tenuiflorum be propagated from cuttings?
A: No, Centaurium Tenuiflorum cannot be propagated from cuttings. It is an annual plant that must be grown from seed.
Related Plants
- Centaurium erythraea
- Centaurium pulchellum
- Centaurium scilloides
- Centaurium spicatum
References
- “Centaurium Tenuiflorum.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden, n.d. Web. 30 Aug. 2021.
- “Centaurium Tenuiflorum.” RHS. Royal Horticultural Society, n.d. Web. 30 Aug. 2021.
- “Centaurium Tenuiflorum.” Wildscreen Arkive. Wildscreen, n.d. Web. 30 Aug. 2021.
