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Description
Fumaria Officinalis, commonly known as common fumitory or earth smoke, is an annual herb belonging to the family Fumariaceae. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has a long history of medicinal use. The plant has delicate, fern-like foliage and small pink to purple flowers arranged in clusters. It grows upright with a height of up to 50 cm.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Fumariaceae |
| Genus | Fumaria |
Appearance
The leaves of Fumaria Officinalis are finely dissected and have a blue-green color. The flowers are small and pinkish to purplish in color and have a unique shape, resembling a bird’s head. The plant grows upright, reaching a height of up to 50 cm. The stems are slim and often red in color. The roots are thin and fibrous.
Care Guide
Fumaria Officinalis is relatively easy to care for and requires minimal attention. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
- Soil: Grow Fumaria Officinalis in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade or filtered sunlight, but it can also tolerate full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Fumaria Officinalis can grow in USDA Zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Fumaria Officinalis is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, it may occasionally be affected by the following:
- Mildew: Powdery mildew can affect the plant in humid conditions.
- Aphids: Aphids may occasionally feed on the foliage of the plant.
Habitat
Fumaria Officinalis is native to Europe and Western Asia and can be found growing in fields, meadows, and waste places. It prefers well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Fumaria Officinalis edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible and has a slightly bitter taste. It is often used in salads and soups.
Q: What is the medicinal use of Fumaria Officinalis?
A: The plant has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including liver and gallbladder disorders, skin problems, and respiratory infections.
Q: Can Fumaria Officinalis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate sunlight and moisture.
Q: How often should I fertilize Fumaria Officinalis?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced liquid fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Fumaria Capreolata
- Fumaria Parviflora
- Fumaria Vaillantii
References
- “Fumaria officinalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c610.
- “Fumaria officinalis.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/8264/Fumaria-officinalis/Details.
- “Fumaria officinalis – L.” Plants For A Future. Accessed August 16, 2021. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Fumaria+officinalis.
