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Description
Lycopsis arvensis subsp. arvensis, commonly known as corn gromwell or field gromwell, is an annual plant belonging to the family Boraginaceae. It is native to Europe and Asia, but it can also be found in North America, where it has become naturalized. This plant can grow up to 20-60 cm in height and produces white or pinkish flowers that bloom from May to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lycopsis |
Appearance
Corn gromwell has a slender stem with lance-shaped leaves that are dark green in color. The flowers are small and grow in clusters on the stem. They have five petals and are either white or pinkish in color. The plant produces small, round fruits that contain four seeds. The seeds are black and shiny.
Care Guide
Corn gromwell is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it prefers well-drained soils. The plant should be watered regularly, but it does not require excessive watering. It should be fertilized once a month with a balanced fertilizer. Corn gromwell prefers full sunlight but can also grow in partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Corn gromwell is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It can also be affected by powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Corn gromwell is commonly found in fields, meadows, and disturbed areas. It prefers open areas with full sunlight and well-drained soils.
Question and Answer
Q: Is corn gromwell an invasive species?
A: No, corn gromwell is not considered an invasive species.
Q: Can corn gromwell be grown in containers?
A: Yes, corn gromwell can be grown in containers.
Q: Does corn gromwell have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, the plant has been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, including coughs and inflammations.
Q: Is corn gromwell toxic to pets?
A: There is no evidence that corn gromwell is toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Lycopsis arvensis subsp. peregrina
- Lithospermum arvense
- Cynoglossum officinale
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Lycopsis arvensis subsp. arvensis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=LYARA2
- Plants for a Future. (n.d.). Lycopsis arvensis – L. Retrieved from https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Lycopsis+arvensis
- Flora of North America. (n.d.). Lycopsis arvensis subsp. arvensis. Retrieved from http://www.efloras.org/florataxon.aspx?flora_id=1&taxon_id=250094273
