Contents
Description
The Elsholtzia Splendens plant is a member of the mint family and is native to East Asia. It is a perennial herb that grows up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide. The plant has an upright growth habit with square stems and green leaves that are aromatic when crushed. It produces showy spikes of lavender-pink flowers that bloom in the summer and fall. The Elsholtzia Splendens plant is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicotyledons |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Elsholtzia |
Appearance
The Elsholtzia Splendens plant has green, lance-shaped leaves that are 2-3 inches long and 1/2 inch wide. The leaves are arranged in pairs along the square stem. The plant produces spikes of lavender-pink flowers that are 6-8 inches long and bloom in the summer and fall. The flower spikes are covered in small, tubular flowers that are about 1/4 inch long. The plant has an upright growth habit and can grow up to 2 feet tall and 1 foot wide.
Care Guide
The Elsholtzia Splendens plant is easy to care for and can be grown in containers or in the ground. Here are some care tips:Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 6-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Elsholtzia Splendens plant is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, whiteflies, and aphids. To prevent these pests, keep the plant well-watered and spray it with insecticidal soap.
Habitat
The Elsholtzia Splendens plant is native to East Asia and can be found growing in open fields, mountainsides, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Elsholtzia Splendens plant drought tolerant?
A: No, the plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly.Q: Can the Elsholtzia Splendens plant be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors in a bright, sunny location.Q: How often should the Elsholtzia Splendens plant be fertilized?
A: The plant should be fertilized in the spring and summer with a balanced fertilizer.Q: Can the Elsholtzia Splendens plant be used for cooking?
A: No, the plant is not commonly used for culinary purposes.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to the Elsholtzia Splendens:
- Elsholtzia ciliata
- Elsholtzia stauntonii
- Elsholtzia densa
References
- “Elsholtzia Splendens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a628.
- “Elsholtzia Splendens.” Gardenia, www.gardenia.net/plant/elsholtzia-splendens.
- “Elsholtzia Splendens.” Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/181405/.
