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Description
Elephantopus Scaber, commonly known as Elephant’s foot, is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and America. Elephant’s foot is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat a variety of ailments, including respiratory infections, fever, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Elephantopus |
Appearance
Elephantopus Scaber has a thick, succulent stem that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The leaves are large, oval-shaped, and have a furry texture. They can grow up to 30 centimeters long and 15 centimeters wide. The flowers are small, white, and grow in clusters at the end of the stem. The plant blooms from July to September.
Care Guide
Elephantopus Scaber is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but prefers well-drained soil. The plant needs to be watered regularly, but should not be overwatered. It can tolerate some shade, but prefers full sun. Elephant’s foot is hardy in USDA zones 8 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Elephantopus Scaber is generally pest and disease-resistant. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Insects such as aphids and spider mites can infest the plant, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Elephantopus Scaber is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and America. It grows in open areas such as fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It can also be found in disturbed areas such as abandoned fields and waste areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Elephantopus Scaber toxic?
A: No, Elephant’s foot is not toxic and is safe to handle.
Q: Can Elephantopus Scaber be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Elephant’s foot can be grown indoors in a sunny location.
Q: How often should Elephantopus Scaber be fertilized?
A: Elephant’s foot does not require frequent fertilization. It can be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How do I propagate Elephantopus Scaber?
A: Elephant’s foot can be propagated by division in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Elephantopus Carolinianus
- Elephantopus Elatus
- Elephantopus Scaber Var. Montanus
References
- “Elephantopus Scaber.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282448.
- “Elephantopus Scaber.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:187324-1.
- “Elephantopus Scaber (L.) L.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/gcc-126581.
