Contents
Description
Mercurialis Leiocarpa is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. It is commonly known as Smooth Mercurialis and is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. The plant has a smooth stem that can grow up to 30-100 cm in height. It has alternate, simple leaves that are ovate to lanceolate in shape and can grow up to 5-12 cm in length. The flowers of Mercurialis Leiocarpa are small, unisexual and occur in clusters. They are greenish-yellow in colour and bloom from April to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus | Mercurialis |
Appearance
The leaves of Mercurialis Leiocarpa are soft and smooth to the touch. They are green in colour and have a pointed tip. The stem of the plant is also smooth and green. The flowers of Mercurialis Leiocarpa are small and unisexual. They grow in clusters and have a greenish-yellow colour. The fruit of the plant is a capsule that contains small, black seeds.
Care Guide
Mercurialis Leiocarpa is a hardy plant that requires little care. It can grow in any type of soil but prefers well-draining soil. The plant needs to be watered regularly during the growing season. Fertilizer is not necessary but can be applied if desired. Mercurialis Leiocarpa can grow in full sun to partial shade and can tolerate temperatures down to -10°C. It is hardy to USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Mercurialis Leiocarpa is not typically affected by pests or diseases. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in overly wet conditions. To prevent powdery mildew, ensure that the plant is not overwatered and has adequate airflow.
Habitat
Mercurialis Leiocarpa is native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It can be found growing in woodlands, meadows, and hedgerows. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Mercurialis Leiocarpa poisonous?
A: Yes, Mercurialis Leiocarpa is poisonous if ingested. It contains a toxic compound called euphorbain.
Q: Can Mercurialis Leiocarpa be grown indoors?
A: No, Mercurialis Leiocarpa is best grown outdoors in a garden or container.
Q: How often should Mercurialis Leiocarpa be watered?
A: Mercurialis Leiocarpa should be watered regularly during the growing season. The soil should be kept moist but not overly wet.
Q: What is the best time to prune Mercurialis Leiocarpa?
A: Mercurialis Leiocarpa can be pruned in early spring before new growth appears.
Related Plants
- Mercurialis annua
- Mercurialis perennis
- Mercurialis tomentosa
References
- “Mercurialis Leiocarpa.” Plants For A Future, www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Mercurialis+leiocarpa.
- “Mercurialis Leiocarpa.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/16596/Mercurialis-leiocarpa/Details.
- “Mercurialis Leiocarpa.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280376&isprofile=0.
