Contents
Description
Menispermum Canadense, commonly known as Canada Moonseed, is a deciduous woody vine native to North America. It belongs to the Menispermaceae family and has a unique appearance with its heart-shaped leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. The plant produces grape-like fruit that is toxic to humans but is a source of food for birds and mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Menispermaceae |
| Genus | Menispermum |
Appearance
Canada Moonseed has heart-shaped leaves that are dark green and can grow up to 10 cm in width. The plant can grow up to 10 meters long and has small greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the summer. The fruit is a bluish-black berry that looks similar to a grape.
Care Guide
Canada Moonseed prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade. It can grow in a wide range of hardiness zones, from 3-9. Water the plant regularly during the growing season and fertilize it once a month. Prune the plant in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canada Moonseed is susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. It can also be attacked by pests like spider mites and scale insects. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of damage or infestation and treat it with an appropriate fungicide or insecticide.
Habitat
Canada Moonseed is found in moist woodlands, along streams, and in disturbed areas. It is native to North America and can be found in the eastern United States and Canada.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Canada Moonseed toxic to humans?
A: Yes, the fruit of Canada Moonseed is toxic to humans and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms if ingested.
Q: Can Canada Moonseed be grown indoors?
A: No, Canada Moonseed is a vine that requires ample space to grow and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: Does Canada Moonseed attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the fruit of Canada Moonseed is a source of food for birds and mammals.
Q: How often should Canada Moonseed be fertilized?
A: Canada Moonseed should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.
Related Plants
- Menispermum crispum
- Menispermum dauricum
- Menispermum glabrum
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Menispermum Canadense. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282665&isprofile=0&
- Natural Resources Conservation Service. (2018). Menispermum Canadense. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=MECA2
- University of Wisconsin-Madison. (n.d.). Menispermum Canadense. Retrieved from https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/canada-moonseed-menispermum-canadense/
