Lycopus

Description

Lycopus is a genus of flowering plants in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The genus comprises approximately 10 to 20 species that are native to North America, Europe, and Asia. These plants are commonly known as water horehounds or bugleweeds. The name Lycopus is derived from the Greek word “lykos” meaning wolf and “pous” meaning foot, which refers to the shape of the leaves.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Tracheophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Lamiales
Family	Lamiaceae
Genus	Lycopus

Appearance

Lycopus plants are herbaceous perennials that grow up to 1 meter tall. They have square stems with opposite leaves that are lanceolate, serrated, and hairy. The flowers are small, white or pink, and arranged in dense clusters that bloom from mid-summer to early fall. The fruit is a four-parted nutlet that is brown or black.

Care Guide

Water: Lycopus plants prefer moist to wet soil but can tolerate periods of drought. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.

Fertilization: Lycopus plants do not require fertilization, but you can add compost or organic matter to the soil to improve its fertility.

Soil: Lycopus plants prefer wet, acidic soil with a pH of 5.0 to 6.5. They can also tolerate slightly alkaline soil.

Sunlight: Lycopus plants prefer partial shade to full shade. They can tolerate some sun but may wilt in hot, dry weather.

Hardiness Zones: Lycopus plants are hardy in USDA zones 3 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Lycopus plants are generally pest and disease-free, but they may be susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew and rust. They may also attract spider mites and aphids. To prevent these problems, avoid overhead watering, provide good air circulation, and remove infected foliage promptly.

Habitat

Lycopus plants grow in wetland habitats like swamps, marshes, and streambanks. They are also found in meadows, woodlands, and disturbed areas. Some species are considered invasive in certain regions.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Lycopus plants grow in full sun?

A: Lycopus plants prefer partial shade to full shade but can tolerate some sun.

Q: What is the best soil pH for Lycopus plants?

A: Lycopus plants prefer wet, acidic soil with a pH of 5.0 to 6.5.

Q: Do Lycopus plants attract pests?

A: Lycopus plants may attract spider mites and aphids but are generally pest-free.

Q: When do Lycopus plants bloom?

A: Lycopus plants bloom from mid-summer to early fall.

Related Plants

• Mentha (mint)
• Salvia (sage)
• Thymus (thyme)

References

• USDA Plants Database: Lycopus
• Missouri Botanical Garden: Lycopus
• North Carolina State University Extension: Lycopus virginicus