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Description
Legousia Pentagonia, also known as Venus’ Looking Glass, is an annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the Campanulaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is widely cultivated for its showy blue or purple flowers that bloom in the summer months.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Campanulaceae |
| Genus | Legousia |
Appearance
The Legousia Pentagonia plant can grow up to 30 cm in height and 20 cm in width. It has light green leaves that are ovate in shape and grow in opposite pairs. The flowers are usually blue or purple and have five petals with a white center. They are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence that can grow up to 30 cm long. The flowers bloom in the summer months and attract bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
The Legousia Pentagonia plant is relatively easy to care for and can thrive in most conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Legousia Pentagonia plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these, keep the plant well-ventilated and avoid overwatering. If infestations occur, treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Legousia Pentagonia plant is native to Europe and Asia and can be found growing in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It prefers well-draining soil and can grow in both sunny and partially shaded areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Legousia Pentagonia plant grow in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can grow in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the container is large enough to accommodate its growth.
Q: How often should I water the Legousia Pentagonia plant?
A: Water the plant regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
Q: What is the blooming season for Legousia Pentagonia?
A: The plant blooms in the summer months.
Q: Can Legousia Pentagonia grow in cold climates?
A: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, which includes many cold climates.
Related Plants
- Campanula lactiflora
- Campanula persicifolia
- Campanula carpatica
- Campanula glomerata
References
- “Legousia pentagonia.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed May 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c960
- “Legousia pentagonia.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed May 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/100999/i-legousia-pentagonia-i/details
- “Venus’ Looking Glass.” Plant of the Week. University of Illinois. Accessed May 2021. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/plant-of-the-week/2016-06-02-venus-looking-glass
