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Description
Eritrichium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae. It comprises around 30 species that are native to the high-altitude regions of the Northern Hemisphere, including the Himalayas, Rocky Mountains, and Alps. Eritrichiums are known for their striking blue flowers, which bloom from late spring to summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Eritrichium |
Appearance
Eritrichiums are small, herbaceous plants that typically grow up to 10-15 cm tall. They have narrow, lance-shaped leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and range in color from light blue to dark blue. They are arranged in clusters at the top of the stems and have five petals.
Care Guide
Water: Eritrichiums prefer well-drained soil that is kept moist but not waterlogged. Water them regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in winter.Fertilization: Eritrichiums do not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.Soil: Eritrichiums prefer well-drained, sandy soil that is slightly acidic. They do not tolerate heavy clay soil.Sunlight: Eritrichiums prefer full sun to partial shade. They require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.Hardiness Zones: Eritrichiums are hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Eritrichiums are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot if they are planted in soil that is too wet or poorly drained.
Habitat
Eritrichiums are native to high-altitude regions and can be found growing in rocky, alpine environments. They are adapted to cold temperatures and can tolerate periods of drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Eritrichiums be grown indoors?
A: Eritrichiums are best grown outdoors in a sunny, well-drained location. They do not do well indoors.Q: Do Eritrichiums require pruning?
A: Eritrichiums do not require pruning. However, you can deadhead the flowers after they fade to encourage new growth.Q: Can Eritrichiums be propagated by cuttings?
A: Eritrichiums are difficult to propagate by cuttings. It is best to propagate them by seed.Q: Are Eritrichiums deer-resistant?
A: Eritrichiums are deer-resistant due to their hairy leaves, which deer do not like to eat.
Related Plants
– Myosotis- Lithodora- Brunnera- Omphalodes- Mertensia
References
– “Eritrichium.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 Sept. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eritrichium.- “Eritrichium.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c775.
