Contents
Description
Leonurus Japonicus, also known as Chinese motherwort, is a flowering plant species that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. It is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but has since been introduced to other parts of the world. The plant is characterized by its tall, erect stems, which can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. Its leaves are green and triangular in shape, while its flowers are pink or purple and bloom in clusters.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Leonurus |
Appearance
Leonurus Japonicus is a tall flowering plant that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. Its stem is erect and has a square shape, while its leaves are green and triangular in shape with serrated edges. The plant’s flowers are pink or purple and bloom in clusters. The flowers have a unique shape, with a long, tubular corolla and two lips. The upper lip is deeply lobed, while the lower lip is three-lobed. The plant’s fruits are small and brown, containing four nutlets.
Care Guide
Leonurus Japonicus is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of growing conditions. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but not excessively, as it can be prone to root rot. Fertilization should be done in the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full sun to partial shade and can grow in hardiness zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Leonurus Japonicus is not typically affected by pests and diseases. However, it can be prone to root rot if over-watered.
Habitat
Leonurus Japonicus is native to China, Japan, and Korea, but has since been introduced to other parts of the world. It can be found growing in open fields, along roadsides, and in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Leonurus Japonicus safe to consume?
A: Yes, Leonurus Japonicus has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries and is safe to consume in moderation.
Q: Can Leonurus Japonicus grow in containers?
A: Yes, Leonurus Japonicus can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate its roots.
Q: How often should Leonurus Japonicus be fertilized?
A: Leonurus Japonicus should be fertilized in the spring and summer months with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Does Leonurus Japonicus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Leonurus Japonicus is known to attract bees and butterflies with its brightly colored flowers.
Related Plants
- Leonurus Cardiaca
- Leonurus Sibiricus
- Leonurus Heterophyllus
- Leonurus Japonicus var. yezoensis
References
- “Leonurus Japonicus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c623.
- “Leonurus Japonicus.” Plants of the World Online, www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:449991-1.
- “Leonurus Japonicus.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/9860/Leonurus-japonicus/Details.
