Contents
Description
Jacobaea vulgaris subspecies vulgaris, also known as common ragwort, is a perennial herb native to Europe and Asia. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly found in fields, meadows, and along roadsides. It can grow up to 1.5 meters in height and has yellow flowers that bloom from June to October. The plant has a distinct odor and can be toxic to livestock if consumed in large quantities.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Jacobaea |
Appearance
Common ragwort has a rosette of leaves at the base of the plant, which are lobed and toothed. The stems are green and hairy, and the leaves decrease in size as they approach the top of the stem. The flowers are bright yellow and can be up to 2cm in diameter. The plant can produce up to 200,000 seeds per year and can spread quickly if not controlled.
Care Guide
Common ragwort is a hardy plant that can grow in a wide range of soils and climates. However, it prefers well-drained soils and full sun. It is tolerant of drought and does not require frequent watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but adding compost or organic matter to the soil can improve growth. The plant is hardy to USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Common ragwort can be susceptible to rust and powdery mildew, but these diseases do not usually cause serious damage. The plant has few natural predators, but it can be controlled through manual removal or the use of herbicides. The plant can also be toxic to livestock if consumed in large quantities, so care should be taken to prevent ingestion.
Habitat
Common ragwort is commonly found in fields, meadows, and along roadsides, and it can grow in a wide range of soils and climates. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Australia. The plant is considered invasive in some areas and can spread quickly if not controlled.
Question and Answer
Q: Is common ragwort poisonous to humans?
A: While common ragwort can be toxic to livestock if consumed in large quantities, it is not considered poisonous to humans.
Q: Can common ragwort be used for medicinal purposes?
A: While common ragwort has been used in traditional medicine for various ailments, it is not recommended for medicinal use due to its toxic properties.
Q: How can common ragwort be controlled?
A: Common ragwort can be controlled through manual removal or the use of herbicides. Care should be taken to prevent ingestion of the plant by livestock.
Q: Is common ragwort considered an invasive species?
A: Common ragwort is considered invasive in some areas and can spread quickly if not controlled.
Related Plants
- Jacobaea aquatica
- Jacobaea maritima
- Jacobaea erucifolia
References
- “Jacobaea vulgaris.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?taxonid=281228&isprofile=1&basic=ragwort>.
- “Jacobaea vulgaris.” Plantwise Knowledge Bank. Accessed 20 July 2021. <https://www.plantwise.org/knowledgebank/datasheet/17973>.
- “Jacobaea vulgaris (Common Ragwort).” CABI Invasive Species Compendium. Accessed 20 July 2021. <https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/28417>.
