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Description
Nabalus Albus, also known as the White Lettuce, is a perennial plant that is native to North America. It is a member of the Asteraceae family, which also includes daisies and sunflowers. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has a single stem that is covered in white, woolly hairs.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Nabalus |
Appearance
The leaves of the Nabalus Albus are deeply lobed and toothed, and can grow up to 10 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and grow in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant blooms from July to September.
Care Guide
Nabalus Albus prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil pH levels. The plant requires full sun to partial shade, and needs to be watered regularly during dry periods. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Nabalus Albus is relatively pest and disease-free, but can be susceptible to powdery mildew if grown in humid conditions.
Habitat
Nabalus Albus is commonly found in open woods, meadows, and along roadsides. It is native to eastern North America, but has been introduced to other regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Nabalus Albus edible?
A: While some sources suggest that the leaves of the plant can be eaten, it is not commonly consumed and there is little information available about its edibility.
Q: Can Nabalus Albus be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow Nabalus Albus in containers, the plant can grow quite tall and may require staking or support.
Q: Does Nabalus Albus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the small white flowers of the plant are attractive to a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Nabalus Albus be propagated from cuttings?
A: It is possible to propagate Nabalus Albus from stem cuttings taken in the spring or fall.
Related Plants
- Nabalus serpentarius (Lion’s Foot)
- Nabalus trifoliolatus (Three-leaved White Lettuce)
- Nabalus racemosus (Rattlesnake Root)
References
- “Nabalus albus.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=276534&isprofile=0&basic=nabalus%20albus.
- “Nabalus albus (L.) Hook. White Lettuce.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed September 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:236571-1.
- “Nabalus albus.” Illinois Wildflowers. Accessed September 2021. https://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/prairie/plantx/white_lettucex.htm.
