Contents
Description
Launaea Arborescens is a perennial plant native to North Africa and the Mediterranean. It is commonly known as Tree Arugula or Gum Plant. This plant grows up to 1 meter tall and has a woody stem with few branches. The leaves of this plant are green, long, and narrow, with serrated edges. The flowers are yellow and bloom in clusters at the top of the stem.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Launaea |
Appearance
The leaves of Launaea Arborescens are long, narrow, and green in color. They have serrated edges and are about 10-15 cm long. The flowers are small and yellow, and they bloom in clusters at the top of the stem. The stem of this plant is woody and can grow up to 1 meter tall. The plant has few branches and looks like a small tree. The root system is well-developed and can penetrate deep into the soil.
Care Guide
Water: Launaea Arborescens prefers well-draining soil and requires moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil feels dry to the touch.
Fertilization: This plant does not require heavy fertilization. Fertilize the plant once a month with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season.
Soil: Launaea Arborescens prefers well-draining soil with a pH of 6.5-7.5. Add organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility.
Sunlight: This plant requires full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate high temperatures and dry conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Launaea Arborescens can grow in hardiness zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Launaea Arborescens is generally a hardy plant and is not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Aphids and whiteflies may occasionally infest the plant, but they can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Launaea Arborescens is native to North Africa and the Mediterranean. It grows in dry, rocky areas and is often found in coastal regions. This plant is well-adapted to hot and arid climates and can tolerate drought and high temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Launaea Arborescens a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, this plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
Q: Can Launaea Arborescens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the deep root system.
Q: Does Launaea Arborescens attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the yellow flowers of this plant attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Launaea Arborescens be pruned?
A: This plant does not require frequent pruning. Prune it occasionally to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches.
Related Plants
- Launaea Intybacea
- Launaea Procumbens
- Launaea Resedifolia
- Launaea Taraxacifolia
References
- “Launaea arborescens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 20 May 2021. <http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=292921&isprofile=0&=>.
- “Launaea arborescens (Batt.) Maire.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 20 May 2021. <http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:228232-1>.
- “Launaea arborescens.” The Plant List. Accessed 20 May 2021. <http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/gcc-99049>.
