Contents
Description
Dysphania Aristata, also known as American wormseed, is an annual flowering herb that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America and has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States. The plant is commonly used as an insecticide and has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Dysphania |
Appearance
The plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has green, slender leaves that are 2-8 cm long. The flowers are greenish-white and are arranged in small clusters. The plant produces small, black, and round seeds that are approximately 1 mm in diameter.
Care Guide
Water: Dysphania Aristata requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Fertilization: The plant does not require much fertilization, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied once every two weeks during the growing season.
Soil: Dysphania Aristata prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: The plant requires full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
Hardiness Zones: Dysphania Aristata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
The plant is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be attacked by aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. The plant can also be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.
Habitat
Dysphania Aristata is native to Mexico and Central America and can be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, where it grows in disturbed areas, roadsides, and fields. It prefers warm and dry climates and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: What is Dysphania Aristata used for?
A: Dysphania Aristata is commonly used as an insecticide and has been used for medicinal purposes in traditional medicine.
Q: Is Dysphania Aristata an annual or perennial plant?
A: Dysphania Aristata is an annual plant.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Dysphania Aristata?
A: Dysphania Aristata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What does Dysphania Aristata look like?
A: Dysphania Aristata grows up to 1 meter tall and has green, slender leaves that are 2-8 cm long. The flowers are greenish-white and are arranged in small clusters. The plant produces small, black, and round seeds that are approximately 1 mm in diameter.
Related Plants
- Dysphania Ambrosioides
- Dysphania Botrys
- Dysphania Graveolens
References
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/dysphania-aristata.shtml
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/american-wormseed/american-wormseed-plant.htm
- https://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/d/dysphania-aristata=american-wormseed.php
