Contents
Description
Heracleum Austriacum is a flowering plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is commonly known as Austrian cow parsnip and is native to the Alps region. The plant can grow up to 2 meters in height and produces large umbels of white flowers during the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Heracleum |
Appearance
The leaves of Heracleum Austriacum are large and deeply lobed, with a rough texture. The stem is stout and covered with coarse hairs. The flowers are arranged in large umbels that can be up to 30 centimeters in diameter. Each individual flower is small and white, with five petals. The plant produces a large taproot that can extend up to 1 meter deep into the soil.
Care Guide
Heracleum Austriacum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It requires full sun to partial shade and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but is hardy to USDA zones 4-8. It is important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, during the growing season. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.
Common Pests & Diseases
Heracleum Austriacum is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew and leaf spot. To prevent these issues, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering. If necessary, treat with a fungicide according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Habitat
Heracleum Austriacum is native to the Alps region, where it grows in meadows, along streams, and in other moist areas. It prefers cool, humid environments and is often found at higher elevations.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Heracleum Austriacum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Heracleum Austriacum can be grown in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage.
Q: Is Heracleum Austriacum toxic?
A: Yes, Heracleum Austriacum contains a substance called furocoumarin, which can cause skin irritation and blisters when exposed to sunlight.
Q: How often should I water Heracleum Austriacum?
A: Heracleum Austriacum prefers consistently moist soil, so water it whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Q: How tall can Heracleum Austriacum grow?
A: Heracleum Austriacum can grow up to 2 meters in height.
Related Plants
- Heracleum sphondylium
- Heracleum maximum
- Heracleum lanatum
References
- “Heracleum austriacum.” Plants of the World Online. Kew Science. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:843472-1.
- “Heracleum austriacum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279201&isprofile=0&.
- “Heracleum austriacum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 4, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/9119/heracleum-austriacum/details.
