Contents
Description
Frasera Speciosa, commonly known as the Elkweed plant, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Gentianaceae family. The plant is native to North America, particularly in the Rocky Mountains and the western parts of the United States. The Elkweed plant can grow up to 6 feet tall, with a spread of approximately 2-3 feet. The plant blooms in mid to late summer, producing clusters of white or pale green flowers. The plant’s leaves are arranged in whorls, and its stem is thick and hairy.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Dicots |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Frasera |
Appearance
The Frasera Speciosa plant has a unique appearance, making it a great addition to any garden. The plant has large, broad leaves that are dark green in color and arranged in whorls. The plant’s stem is thick and hairy, with a height of up to 6 feet. The Elkweed plant produces clusters of white or pale green flowers, which bloom in mid to late summer. The flowers are trumpet-shaped and have five petals, with a diameter of up to 3 inches.
Care Guide
Proper care is essential in ensuring the growth and health of the Frasera Speciosa plant. Below are some care tips:
Water
The Elkweed plant requires moderate watering, especially during the growing season. Water the plant when the soil becomes dry to the touch, but avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant once every three months, using a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer around the base of the plant, taking care not to let it touch the stem.
Soil
The Elkweed plant thrives in well-draining soil, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0. A mixture of sand, peat moss, and perlite makes an ideal soil mixture for the plant.
Sunlight
The Frasera Speciosa plant requires full sun to partial shade. Ensure that the plant receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Hardiness Zones
The Elkweed plant is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Frasera Speciosa plant is prone to some pests and diseases, including:
Pests
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Leafhoppers
Diseases
- Crown rot
- Root rot
- Powdery mildew
To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure that the plant is in good health, and avoid over-watering or over-fertilizing the plant.
Habitat
The Frasera Speciosa plant is native to North America and can be found in the Rocky Mountains and the western parts of the United States. The plant grows in open meadows, rocky slopes, and along streams and rivers. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Frasera Speciosa plant poisonous?
A: Yes, the Elkweed plant is poisonous, and its leaves and roots contain a bitter compound called swertiamarin.
Q: How do I propagate the Frasera Speciosa plant?
A: The Elkweed plant can be propagated through seeds or by dividing the root ball.
Q: How often should I fertilize the Frasera Speciosa plant?
A: Fertilize the plant once every three months, using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the ideal pH for the soil of the Elkweed plant?
A: The Elkweed plant thrives in well-draining soil, with a pH of 6.0 to 7.0.
Related Plants
- Frasera caroliniensis
- Frasera albicaulis
- Frasera neglecta
References
- “Frasera Speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=e450. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Frasera Speciosa.” Plant Care Today, 2 July 2021, plantcaretoday.com/frasera-speciosa.html. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
- “Frasera Speciosa.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, www.britannica.com/plant/Frasera-speciosa. Accessed 23 Sept. 2021.
