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Description:
Dracocephalum Austriacum, commonly known as Austrian Dragonhead, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia, and it can grow up to 1 meter in height. The plant has a unique and attractive appearance, with its showy purple-blue flowers and its aromatic leaves that have a minty scent.
Taxonomic Information:
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Dracocephalum |
Appearance:
The leaves of Dracocephalum Austriacum are oblong and toothed, with a dark green color. The flowers are arranged in dense whorls on the stem and have a tubular shape with two lips. The upper lip is hooded, while the lower lip is three-lobed. The flowers bloom from mid-summer to early fall and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide:
Dracocephalum Austriacum is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in full sun to partial shade. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. Water the plant deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once in the spring and again in mid-summer. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases:
Dracocephalum Austriacum is generally free of pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to powdery mildew, spider mites, and aphids. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid over-fertilizing the plant.
Habitat:
Dracocephalum Austriacum is native to the mountainous regions of Europe and Asia. It grows in meadows, pastures, and open woodlands. In cultivation, it is commonly used in herb gardens, rock gardens, and border plantings.
Question and Answer:
Q: Is Dracocephalum Austriacum a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s showy flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Dracocephalum Austriacum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dracocephalum Austriacum?
A: Fertilize the plant once in the spring and again in mid-summer with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dracocephalum Austriacum?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Related Plants:
- Dracocephalum Moldavica
- Dracocephalum Ruyschiana
- Dracocephalum Parviflorum
References:
- “Dracocephalum austriacum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287616.
- “Austrian Dragon’s-head.” Plant Information Center. www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=DRAU2.
- “Dracocephalum austriacum.” Royal Horticultural Society. www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/10429/Dracocephalum-austriacum/Details.
