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Description
Ficaria Kochii, commonly known as Koch’s Lesser Celandine, is a beautiful flowering plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been introduced to North America as an ornamental plant. The plant produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring and are an excellent source of food for bees and other pollinators. The leaves of Ficaria Kochii are heart-shaped and shiny, making it an attractive addition to gardens and landscapes.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Ficaria |
| Species | Kochii |
Appearance
Ficaria Kochii grows up to 20 cm in height and spreads through bulbils and seeds. The plant produces heart-shaped, shiny leaves that are dark green and grow up to 7 cm in length. The flowers of Ficaria Kochii are bright yellow and have 8-12 petals and numerous stamens. The flowers bloom in early spring and last for several weeks. The plant produces small, bulb-like structures called bulbils that can grow into new plants.
Care Guide
Ficaria Kochii is a relatively low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Ficaria Kochii prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Ficaria Kochii does not require fertilization but can benefit from a light application of compost in early spring.
- Soil: Ficaria Kochii prefers well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of soil types, including loam, sand, and clay.
- Sunlight: Ficaria Kochii prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
- Hardiness Zones: Ficaria Kochii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ficaria Kochii is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if grown in poorly-draining soil. Slugs and snails may also feed on the plant’s leaves.
Habitat
Ficaria Kochii is native to Europe and Western Asia and is commonly found in woodlands, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist soils and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Ficaria Kochii grow in full sun?
A: Ficaria Kochii prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates.
Q: Is Ficaria Kochii a good source of food for pollinators?
A: Yes, Ficaria Kochii produces bright yellow flowers that bloom in early spring and are an excellent source of food for bees and other pollinators.
Q: How often should Ficaria Kochii be watered?
A: Ficaria Kochii prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ficaria Kochii?
A: Ficaria Kochii is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Ficaria Verna
- Ficaria Sepium
- Ficaria Striata
References
- “Ficaria kochii (Koch) Janchen.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, accessed 25 May 2021, http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:712017-1.
- “Lesser Celandine (Ficaria verna).” Royal Horticultural Society, accessed 25 May 2021, https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/13311/ficaria-verna/details.
- “Ficaria verna.” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed 25 May 2021, http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b361.
