Contents
Description
Nabalus Autumnalis, commonly known as the common rattlesnake root, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is a native plant in eastern North America, where it can be found in open woods, fields, and meadows. The plant produces a single stem that can grow up to 2-4 feet tall, with ovate leaves that have a serrated margin. The flowers of the Nabalus Autumnalis are small and white, and they bloom in late summer to early fall. The plant is known for its medicinal properties, specifically for treating snake bites.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Nabalus |
Appearance
The Nabalus Autumnalis produces a single stem that can grow up to 2-4 feet tall. It has ovate leaves that are up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide, and they have a serrated margin. The leaves are green and hairy, and they grow on the stem alternately. The flowers of the plant are small and white, and they bloom in late summer to early fall. The flowerheads are about 1/8 inch in diameter and arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant produces a taproot that can grow up to 18 inches long.
Care Guide
The Nabalus Autumnalis is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
- Water: Water your plant regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your plant once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The Nabalus Autumnalis prefers well-drained soil. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The Nabalus Autumnalis is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Nabalus Autumnalis is a relatively pest and disease-free plant. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, leaf spot, and rust. Here are some tips to help you prevent and treat common pests and diseases:
- Powdery Mildew: Powdery mildew can be prevented by providing good air circulation around the plant. If your plant gets infected, treat it with a fungicide.
- Leaf Spot: Leaf spot can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant. If your plant gets infected, remove the affected leaves and treat it with a fungicide.
- Rust: Rust can be prevented by avoiding overhead watering and providing good air circulation around the plant. If your plant gets infected, remove the affected leaves and treat it with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Nabalus Autumnalis is a native plant in eastern North America, where it can be found in open woods, fields, and meadows. The plant prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. It is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the Nabalus Autumnalis a poisonous plant?
A: No, the Nabalus Autumnalis is not poisonous. In fact, it is known for its medicinal properties, specifically for treating snake bites.
Q: Can the Nabalus Autumnalis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, the Nabalus Autumnalis can be grown in a container as long as it has enough room for the taproot to grow.
Q: Can the Nabalus Autumnalis tolerate drought?
A: The Nabalus Autumnalis prefers moist soil but can tolerate brief periods of drought.
Q: Does the Nabalus Autumnalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the Nabalus Autumnalis attracts bees and butterflies with its small white flowers.
Related Plants
- Nabalus Albus
- Nabalus Asper
- Nabalus Boottii
- Nabalus Nanus
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=NAUT2
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=NAUT2
- https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/nabalus_autumnalis.shtml
