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Description
Lepidium Heterophyllum, also known as Smith’s pepperwort, is a flowering plant native to North America. It belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is an annual or biennial herb. It grows up to 1.5 feet tall and has small, white flowers that bloom from May to August. The plant is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as fields, roadsides, and waste areas.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Lepidium |
Appearance
Lepidium Heterophyllum has alternate, lance-shaped leaves that are grayish-green in color and covered in small, white hairs. The leaves are up to 3 inches long and 0.5 inches wide. The plant’s stem is also covered in small, white hairs and is often branched. The white flowers are small and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant produces small, round seed pods that are about 0.1 inches in diameter.
Care Guide
To care for Lepidium Heterophyllum, provide it with well-draining soil and full sun. The plant prefers moist soil and should be watered regularly, but be careful not to overwater as this may cause root rot. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Lepidium Heterophyllum can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Lepidium Heterophyllum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and downy mildew. Aphids and spider mites may also occasionally infest the plant. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Lepidium Heterophyllum is commonly found in disturbed areas, such as fields, roadsides, and waste areas. It grows in a variety of soil types and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Lepidium Heterophyllum toxic?
A: No, Lepidium Heterophyllum is not toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Lepidium Heterophyllum be grown indoors?
A: It is possible to grow Lepidium Heterophyllum indoors, but it prefers full sun and may not thrive in low-light conditions.
Q: Can Lepidium Heterophyllum be grown from seeds?
A: Yes, Lepidium Heterophyllum can be grown from seeds. Sow the seeds in the spring or fall and cover with a thin layer of soil.
Q: How tall does Lepidium Heterophyllum grow?
A: Lepidium Heterophyllum can grow up to 1.5 feet tall.
Related Plants
- Lepidium Virginicum
- Lepidium Campestre
- Lepidium Sativum
References
- USDA Plants Database: Lepidium Heterophyllum
- Missouri Botanical Garden: Lepidium Heterophyllum
- University of Wisconsin-Madison: Lepidium Heterophyllum
