Contents
Description
Frasera Albicaulis is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. It is commonly known as Elkweed due to its occurrence in elk habitats. This plant is native to North America and is found in the western regions of the United States and Canada.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Frasera |
Appearance
The Frasera Albicaulis plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and 3 feet wide. Its leaves are oblong or lanceolate, with a length of 4 to 10 inches and a width of 1 to 3 inches. The leaves are arranged in whorls around the stem, with 4 to 8 leaves per whorl. The flowers are white and tubular, with a length of ¾ to 1 inch. They are arranged in a dense terminal cluster, with 5 to 10 flowers per cluster. The flowering period is from July to August. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains numerous small seeds.
Care Guide
The Frasera Albicaulis plant prefers moist, well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It needs full sun or partial shade to grow. The plant requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It is important to avoid overwatering, as the plant is susceptible to root rot. Fertilization can be done in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. This plant is hardy in zones 3 to 7.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Frasera Albicaulis plant is prone to attack from aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases can be prevented by ensuring good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The Frasera Albicaulis plant is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, open woods, and sagebrush steppe. It is commonly found in areas with moist soil, such as along streams and in wet meadows. The plant is also known to occur in elk habitats, which has led to its common name of Elkweed.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Frasera Albicaulis a rare plant?
A: Yes, it is considered a rare plant in some areas due to habitat loss and overgrazing by livestock.
Q: Can Frasera Albicaulis be grown in a container?
A: It is possible to grow Frasera Albicaulis in a container, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.
Q: Does Frasera Albicaulis have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, indigestion, and respiratory infections.
Q: Is Frasera Albicaulis a good plant for pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant is a good source of nectar for bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Frasera Speciosa
- Frasera Puberulenta
- Frasera Parryi
- Frasera Nelsonii
References
- USDA Plants Database: Frasera Albicaulis
- Wildflower.org: Frasera Albicaulis
- Montana Field Guide: Frasera Albicaulis
- Northwest Native Plant Guide: Frasera Albicaulis
