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Description
Delphinium Staphisagria, also known as Lice-Bane, is a flowering plant that belongs to the buttercup family Ranunculaceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region but can be found in other parts of the world as well. This plant has been used for its medicinal properties since ancient times, particularly for its insecticidal properties. The plant’s seeds were crushed and used as a lice repellent for both humans and animals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Delphinium |
Appearance
Delphinium Staphisagria is an herbaceous perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has a straight stem with multiple branches and deeply lobed, dark green leaves that can reach up to 12 cm in length. The plant produces numerous flowers that are pale blue or violet, with a white center, and grow in spikes that can be up to 30 cm long. The flowers bloom in mid-summer and attract butterflies and bees.
Care Guide
Delphinium Staphisagria is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, especially during the growing season. Make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer in the spring and summer to encourage growth and flowering.Soil: Plant Delphinium Staphisagria in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Delphinium Staphisagria is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Delphinium Staphisagria is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases. Here are some of them:Pests: This plant is often attacked by aphids, spider mites, and slugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control them.Diseases: Delphinium Staphisagria is prone to powdery mildew, crown rot, and leaf spot. Make sure to plant it in well-draining soil and avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases.
Habitat
Delphinium Staphisagria is native to the Mediterranean region but can be found in other parts of the world as well. It grows in dry, rocky areas, and can often be found on hillsides or in meadows.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Delphinium Staphisagria toxic to pets?
A: Yes, this plant is toxic to pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.Q: Can Delphinium Staphisagria be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: How often should I fertilize Delphinium Staphisagria?
A: Fertilize this plant once a month during the growing season.Q: What is the best time of day to water Delphinium Staphisagria?
A: Water this plant in the morning to give it enough time to dry before nighttime, which can help prevent fungal diseases.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Delphinium Staphisagria:- Delphinium elatum- Delphinium grandiflorum- Delphinium nudicaule- Delphinium tricorne
References
– “Delphinium staphisagria.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c719- “Delphinium staphisagria.” Plants of the World Online. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:710677-1
