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Description
Inula Germanica, also known as German Inula or as Elecampane, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The plant can grow up to 2 meters tall and has long, lance-shaped leaves that are slightly hairy. It produces beautiful yellow flowers in late summer and autumn that attract bees and butterflies.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Inula |
Appearance
Inula Germanica is a tall, sturdy plant that can reach up to 2 meters in height. It has long, lance-shaped leaves that are slightly hairy and can grow up to 30 cm in length. The plant produces beautiful yellow flowers that have a daisy-like appearance with yellow petals and a brownish-yellow center. The flowers bloom in late summer and autumn and can grow up to 5 cm in diameter. The plant has a deep taproot that can reach up to 1 meter in length.
Care Guide
Inula Germanica is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this amazing plant:- Water: Inula Germanica prefers moist soil, but it can also tolerate dry conditions. Water the plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.- Fertilization: Inula Germanica does not require much fertilization, but you can add some compost or organic fertilizer to the soil in the spring.- Soil: Inula Germanica prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils.- Sunlight: Inula Germanica prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will produce fewer flowers.- Hardiness Zones: Inula Germanica is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Inula Germanica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can occasionally be affected by powdery mildew, rust, or spider mites. To prevent these problems, make sure the plant has good air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Inula Germanica is native to Europe and Western Asia and can be found growing in meadows, fields, and along roadsides. It prefers open, sunny areas with well-drained soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Inula Germanica a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Inula Germanica has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Its root contains essential oils and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and expectorant properties.
Q: Can Inula Germanica be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Inula Germanica can be grown in containers, but it will require a large pot and regular watering.
Q: Does Inula Germanica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant produces beautiful yellow flowers that attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How do I propagate Inula Germanica?
A: Inula Germanica can be propagated by dividing the root ball in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
– Inula helenium (Elecampane)- Inula racemosa (Ragwort)- Inula ensifolia (Sword-leaved Inula)- Inula britannica (British Yellowhead)
References
– “Inula Germanica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276777&isprofile=0& – “Inula Germanica.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20760/Inula-germanica/Details – “Inula Germanica.” Plants for a Future. https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Inula+germanica
