Isopyrum
Contents
Description
Isopyrum is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae). It includes around 20 species of annual and perennial plants that are native to Europe, Asia, and North America. The most commonly cultivated species is Isopyrum japonicum, also known as Japanese pheasant’s eye or false rue anemone.The name Isopyrum is derived from the Greek words “isos” meaning equal and “pyros” meaning wheat, referring to the similarity of the seed heads to wheat grains. The flowers are small, delicate, and usually white or pink, with five to eight petals and yellow stamens in the center. The foliage is typically basal, with lobed or toothed leaves that are green or grayish-green in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus | Isopyrum |
Appearance
Isopyrum plants are typically small and delicate, growing to a height of 6 to 12 inches. The flowers are usually white or pink, and are small with 5 to 8 petals. The foliage is basal, with lobed or toothed leaves that are green or grayish-green in color. The seed heads are similar to wheat grains.
Care Guide
Isopyrum plants are relatively easy to care for, and can be grown in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for Isopyrum:
Water: Isopyrum plants prefer moist soil, but not waterlogged. Water them regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: Fertilize Isopyrum plants with a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
Soil: Isopyrum prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can tolerate a range of soil types, but avoid heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: Isopyrum plants prefer partial shade or filtered sunlight. They can tolerate full sun, but may need to be watered more frequently.
Hardiness Zones: Isopyrum plants are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Isopyrum plants are generally not prone to pests or diseases, but they can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or root rot if the soil is too wet. Aphids and slugs may also be a problem, but can be controlled with insecticidal soap or slug bait.
Habitat
Isopyrum plants are native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and can be found in meadows, woodlands, and along stream banks. They prefer moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, and can tolerate a range of soil types.
Questions and Answers
Q: Are Isopyrum plants toxic?
A: Isopyrum plants are not known to be toxic, but they should not be consumed by humans or pets.
Q: How often should I water Isopyrum plants?
A: Isopyrum plants prefer moist soil, so water them regularly but avoid overwatering.
Q: Can Isopyrum plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Isopyrum plants can be grown in containers as long as they have well-draining soil and are watered regularly.
Q: How do I propagate Isopyrum plants?
A: Isopyrum plants can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Ranunculus
- Caltha palustris
- Thalictrum
- Anemone
References
- “Isopyrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282809.
- “Isopyrum.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/53954/.
- “Isopyrum japonicum.” Royal Horticultural Society. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/201085/i-isopyrum-japonicum-i/details.
