Inula Helenium
Contents
Description
Inula Helenium, also known as Elecampane, is a beautiful plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family of flowering plants. This plant is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been naturalized in North America. It is a tall plant that can grow up to 6 feet in height, with large leaves and yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer and early fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Inula |
Appearance
The leaves of Inula Helenium are large, with a rough texture and a pointed tip. They can grow up to 18 inches in length and 6 inches in width. The flowers are bright yellow and daisy-like, with a diameter of up to 3 inches. The plant can grow up to 6 feet in height and 3 feet in width, making it an excellent choice for a border plant or a statement plant in a garden.
Care Guide
Inula Helenium is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips on how to take care of this beautiful plant:
- Water: Inula Helenium prefers moist soil, so make sure to water the plant regularly. However, avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: Inula Helenium prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Inula Helenium prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Inula Helenium grows well in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Inula Helenium is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to root rot if the plant is overwatered. Here are some common pests and diseases to watch out for:
- Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal to the plant.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot is a fungal disease that causes brown spots on the leaves of the plant.
- Aphids: Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that can suck the sap from the leaves of the plant, causing them to yellow and wilt.
- Spider Mites: Spider mites are tiny insects that can spin webs on the leaves of the plant, causing them to turn yellow and fall off.
Habitat
Inula Helenium is native to Europe and Asia, where it grows in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It has been naturalized in North America, where it can be found in gardens and along roadsides.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Inula Helenium toxic?
A: Inula Helenium is not toxic to humans, but it can be toxic to livestock if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can Inula Helenium be grown in containers?
A: Inula Helenium can be grown in containers, but it prefers to be planted in the ground.
Q: How often should I fertilize Inula Helenium?
A: Inula Helenium only needs to be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Inula Helenium be grown in shade?
A: Inula Helenium prefers full sun to partial shade.
Related Plants
- Inula Magnifica
- Inula Racemosa
- Inula Ensifolia
- Inula Conyza
References
- “Inula Helenium.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b996.
- “Inula Helenium.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/17441/i-Inula-helenium-i/Details.
- “Inula Helenium.” The Spruce. Accessed August 18, 2021. https://www.thespruce.com/inula-plant-profile-4847136.
