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Description
Dracocephalum Grandiflorum, also known as Dragonhead or Blue Dragon, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Central Asia and China and can grow up to 30-60 cm in height. The plant produces beautiful blue-violet flowers that bloom in the summer and attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Dracocephalum |
Appearance
The Dracocephalum Grandiflorum plant has long, narrow, and serrated leaves that are green in color. The flowers are arranged in whorls and can grow up to 2.5 cm in length. The petals are blue-violet in color and have a tubular shape with two lips, giving the plant a dragon-like appearance. The plant blooms in the summer and can add a pop of color to any garden.
Care Guide
Dracocephalum Grandiflorum is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some tips for maintaining a healthy plant:
- Water: The plant prefers to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant thrives in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Dracocephalum Grandiflorum is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dracocephalum Grandiflorum is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. Here are some ways to prevent and treat these common problems:
- Powdery mildew: Keep the plant dry and avoid overcrowding. Use a fungicide if necessary.
- Spider mites: Keep the plant well-watered and spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dracocephalum Grandiflorum is native to Central Asia and China, where it grows in meadows, steppes, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown in gardens and containers and is a popular choice for attracting bees and butterflies.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Dracocephalum Grandiflorum deer-resistant?
A: Yes, the plant is deer-resistant.
Q: Can Dracocephalum Grandiflorum be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is kept in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize Dracocephalum Grandiflorum?
A: You should fertilize the plant every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can I propagate Dracocephalum Grandiflorum from cuttings?
A: Yes, you can propagate the plant from cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Dracocephalum Moldavica
- Dracocephalum Argunense
- Dracocephalum Ruyschianum
- Dracocephalum Tanguticum
References
- “Dracocephalum Grandiflorum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286832.
- “Dragonhead (Dracocephalum Grandiflorum).” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant-variety/dracocephalum-grandiflorum-dragonhead.
- “Dracocephalum Grandiflorum.” Plant Finder, www.plantdelights.com/products/dracocephalum-grandiflorum.
