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Description
Galeopsis Pubescens, commonly known as the downy hemp-nettle, is a species of flowering plant belonging to the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Europe and western Asia and is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens. This herbaceous perennial plant can grow up to 60cm tall and has a square stem covered with fine hairs. It produces pinkish-purple flowers from June to September, which are a major attraction for pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Galeopsis |
Appearance
The downy hemp-nettle has dark green leaves that are oval or lance-shaped and oppositely arranged on the stem. The leaves are covered with fine hairs, giving them a soft texture. The plant produces pinkish-purple flowers that are arranged in clusters at the end of the stem. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 2cm long. The plant blooms from June to September and the flowers are a major attraction for bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The downy hemp-nettle is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. Fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring before the plant starts to grow. The downy hemp-nettle prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The downy hemp-nettle is generally not affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in damp conditions. Powdery mildew can be controlled by spraying the plant with a fungicide or by improving air circulation around the plant. The plant can also be affected by aphids, which can be controlled by spraying the plant with an insecticide.
Habitat
The downy hemp-nettle is native to Europe and western Asia and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soils and can tolerate moderate drought. The plant can also be found growing in disturbed areas like abandoned fields and construction sites.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the downy hemp-nettle a good plant for attracting pollinators?
A: Yes, the downy hemp-nettle produces flowers that are a major attraction for bees and butterflies.
Q: What is the best soil type for growing the downy hemp-nettle?
A: The downy hemp-nettle prefers a well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
Q: Does the downy hemp-nettle require regular fertilization?
A: No, fertilization is not necessary but can be done in the spring before the plant starts to grow.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the downy hemp-nettle?
A: The downy hemp-nettle is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Related Plants
- Galeopsis Tetrahit
- Galeopsis Speciosa
- Galeopsis Bifida
- Galeopsis Angustifolia
References
- “Galeopsis Pubescens.” Plants for a Future, 2021, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Galeopsis+pubescens.
- “Galeopsis Pubescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, 2021, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=283043.
- “Galeopsis Pubescens – Downy Hemp-Nettle.” Illinois Wildflowers, 2021, www.illinoiswildflowers.info/weeds/plants/dn_hempnettle.htm.
