Contents
Description
Collinsonia verticillata, also known as richweed, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the eastern and central regions of North America, and it has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has light green leaves with serrated edges. It produces clusters of small, yellow flowers in mid to late summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Collinsonia |
Appearance
Collinsonia verticillata has light green, serrated leaves that grow up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The leaves are arranged in whorls of 3-6 along the stem, and they have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces clusters of small, yellow flowers that bloom from mid to late summer. The flowers have a tubular shape and are arranged in tight, spiky clusters at the top of the stem. The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall and has a sturdy, upright habit.
Care Guide
Collinsonia verticillata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to grow in most garden conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Collinsonia verticillata prefers consistently moist soil.Fertilization: Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer to promote healthy growth and blooming.Soil: Collinsonia verticillata thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH. Add organic matter such as compost or leaf mold to the soil to improve its structure and fertility.Sunlight: This plant prefers partial shade to full sun. Plant it in a location that receives morning sun and afternoon shade for best results.Hardiness Zones: Collinsonia verticillata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Collinsonia verticillata is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. To control these pests, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. The plant may also develop fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant.
Habitat
Collinsonia verticillata is native to the eastern and central regions of North America, where it grows in moist woods, stream banks, and open meadows. It prefers rich, well-draining soil and partial shade to full sun. In the wild, it can grow up to 5 feet tall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Collinsonia verticillata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its root system.Q: Is Collinsonia verticillata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, it is deer-resistant due to its strong, aromatic foliage.Q: Can Collinsonia verticillata be propagated by division?
A: Yes, it can be propagated by division in early spring or fall.Q: How often should Collinsonia verticillata be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring and again in midsummer.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Collinsonia verticillata:
- Mentha spicata (spearmint)
- Melissa officinalis (lemon balm)
- Marrubium vulgare (horehound)
- Lycopus virginicus (bugleweed)
References
- “Collinsonia verticillata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287763
- “Collinsonia verticillata.” North Carolina State University Extension. https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/collinsonia-verticillata/
- “Collinsonia verticillata.” University of Connecticut Plant Database. https://hort.uconn.edu/detail.php?pid=120
