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Description
Ligusticopsis is a genus of flowering plants in the parsley family, Apiaceae. The genus consists of only one species, Ligusticopsis wallichiana, which is native to the Himalayas in Asia. The plant is commonly known as Himalayan hogweed or Wallich’s hogweed.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Ligusticopsis |
| Species | Ligusticopsis wallichiana |
Appearance
Ligusticopsis is a herbaceous perennial plant that grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It has large, deeply lobed leaves that can be up to 60 cm long and 40 cm wide. The plant produces large, umbrella-like inflorescences of small white or pink flowers that bloom in summer. The seeds are small and black, and are produced in large quantities.
Care Guide
Water
Ligusticopsis prefers moist soil, but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plant deeply and regularly during the growing season, and reduce watering in the winter.
Fertilization
Fertilize Ligusticopsis in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Soil
Ligusticopsis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged.
Sunlight
Ligusticopsis prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, it may benefit from some afternoon shade.
Hardiness Zones
Ligusticopsis is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ligusticopsis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to fungal leaf spots and root rot if grown in poorly drained soil. Watch for signs of wilting or yellowing leaves, and adjust watering accordingly.
Habitat
Ligusticopsis is native to the Himalayas in Asia, where it grows in moist, shady habitats such as forest clearings and along streams.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Ligusticopsis toxic?
A: There is currently no information indicating that Ligusticopsis is toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Ligusticopsis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Ligusticopsis can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.
Q: How often should Ligusticopsis be fertilized?
A: Ligusticopsis should be fertilized once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: Can Ligusticopsis tolerate full sun?
A: Yes, Ligusticopsis can tolerate full sun, but prefers partial shade.
Related Plants
Other plants in the Apiaceae family include:
- Celery
- Parsley
- Caraway
- Dill
- Fennel
References
- “Ligusticopsis wallichiana.” The Plant List. Accessed 18 Nov. 2021. <http://www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2754660>
- “Ligusticopsis wallichiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 18 Nov. 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278869>
- “Himalayan hogweed.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 18 Nov. 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/110859/i-ligusticopsis-wallichiana-i/details>
