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Description
Luzula Lutea, commonly known as Golden Woodrush, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Juncaceae family. It is native to Europe and western Asia and is commonly found in woodland areas, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant grows up to 50 cm tall and has a clump-forming habit. It produces numerous basal leaves that are linear-lanceolate and have a bright green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Poales |
| Family | Juncaceae |
| Genus | Luzula |
| Species | Lutea |
Appearance
The Golden Woodrush produces yellow-green flowers that are borne on erect stems. The flowers appear in clusters from May to July and are followed by small, brownish-yellow seed capsules. The plant prefers moist soil conditions and is hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Its foliage turns yellow in autumn, adding to its appeal as an ornamental plant in gardens and landscapes.
Care Guide
The Golden Woodrush requires moderate watering and should be fertilized in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer. It prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5. The plant should be planted in partial shade to full shade and is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures. It is also deer-resistant and can be used as a ground cover in shady areas.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Golden Woodrush is relatively disease-free and pest-resistant. However, it may be susceptible to fungal diseases such as rust and leaf spot. These can be prevented by ensuring proper air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering. Aphids and spider mites may also infest the plant, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
The Golden Woodrush is native to Europe and western Asia and is commonly found in woodland areas, meadows, and rocky slopes. It prefers moist soil conditions and is often used as a ground cover in gardens and landscapes. The plant is also used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Golden Woodrush a good plant for shade gardens?
A: Yes, the Golden Woodrush prefers partial to full shade and can be used as a ground cover in shady areas.
Q: How often should I water my Golden Woodrush?
A: The plant requires moderate watering and should be watered when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for the Golden Woodrush?
A: The plant is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: Can the Golden Woodrush be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the plant is used in traditional medicine as a diuretic and to treat urinary tract infections.
Related Plants
- Luzula Nivea
- Luzula Sylvatica
- Luzula Multiflora
- Luzula Campestris
References
- “Luzula Lutea.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c745.
- “Luzula Lutea.” Plants for a Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Luzula+lutea.
- “Luzula Lutea.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/11621/Luzula-lutea/Details.
