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Description
Cryptolepis Buchananii, commonly known as the Yellow Root, is a perennial plant that belongs to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to West Africa and can grow up to three meters in height. The plant has a woody stem with branches that bear leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Cryptolepis |
Appearance
The Yellow Root has lance-shaped leaves that are 4-10 cm long and 1-4 cm wide. The leaves are arranged oppositely on the stem and have a glossy texture. The plant produces small, yellow, tubular flowers that grow in clusters at the end of the branches. The fruit of the plant is a follicle that contains numerous seeds.
Care Guide
Water: The Yellow Root prefers well-drained soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the soil is dry to the touch.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: The plant thrives in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil pH should be between 6.0 and 7.0.
Sunlight: The Yellow Root requires partial shade to full sun exposure.
Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Yellow Root is relatively pest-free, but it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. The plant may also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot.
Habitat
The Yellow Root is native to West Africa and can be found in countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone. It grows in a variety of habitats, including savannas, forests, and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Yellow Root be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives sufficient sunlight and is watered properly.
Q: Is the Yellow Root edible?
A: While the plant is not commonly used as a food source, the roots have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: How often should the Yellow Root be fertilized?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season.
Q: What is the Yellow Root used for?
A: The plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat malaria, fever, and other ailments.
Related Plants
- Cryptolepis oblongifolia
- Cryptolepis sanguinolenta
- Cryptolepis zanzibarica
References
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5585936/
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/cryptolepis
- https://www.itis.gov/servlet/SingleRpt/SingleRpt?search_topic=TSN&search_value=30478#null
