Contents
Description
Frasera is a genus of plants belonging to the Gentianaceae family. It is named after John Fraser, a Scottish botanist who collected plants in North America during the late 18th century. The genus has around 20 species, which are native to North and Central America. They are known for their medicinal properties, especially in treating digestive disorders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Frasera |
Appearance
Frasera plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 6 feet tall. They have a single unbranched stem with whorls of leaves that are lance-shaped and up to 8 inches long. The flowers are large and showy, with five greenish-yellow petals that are 1-2 inches long. They bloom in mid to late summer and are highly attractive to pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Frasera plants prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. They require regular watering, especially during the hot summer months. Fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer. They are hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Frasera plants are relatively pest and disease-free. However, they may be susceptible to root rot, especially if the soil is too wet. To avoid this, make sure the soil is well-drained and do not overwater the plant.
Habitat
Frasera plants are native to North and Central America and grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, prairies, and open woods. They are found in regions with a temperate climate and moderate rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Frasera plants be grown in containers?
A: While Frasera plants can be grown in containers, they require a lot of space and may not thrive as well as they would in the ground.
Q: Are Frasera plants poisonous?
A: Frasera plants contain bitter compounds that may cause digestive upset if ingested in large quantities. However, they are not considered highly toxic.
Q: How long do Frasera plants live?
A: Frasera plants are long-lived perennials that can live for several years with proper care.
Q: Are Frasera plants deer-resistant?
A: Frasera plants are not considered deer-resistant and may be eaten by deer if they are present in the area.
Related Plants
- Gentiana
- Swertia
- Centaurium
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s Encyclopedia of Trees and Shrubs. Timber Press.
- Flora of North America Editorial Committee. (2007). Flora of North America North of Mexico, Volume 16: Magnoliophyta: Gentianaceae to Cycadaceae. Oxford University Press.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (2021). Frasera. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=286545
