Contents
Description
Oxypolis is a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family, commonly known as water dropworts. It is native to North America and can be found in marshes, swamps, and wetlands. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has umbels of small white flowers that bloom from June to August. The leaves are compound and finely divided, giving the plant a delicate and attractive appearance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Anthophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Oxypolis |
Appearance
Oxypolis is an attractive plant that can add beauty to any garden. It has compound leaves that are finely divided, giving it a delicate and elegant appearance. The plant can grow up to 6 feet tall and has umbels of small white flowers that bloom from June to August. The flowers are followed by small, flattened fruits that are about 1/8 inch long.
Care Guide
Oxypolis is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does have some specific requirements to ensure its growth and health.
Water:
Oxypolis is a water-loving plant and needs to be kept moist at all times. It can grow in shallow water or in damp soil, but it should never be allowed to dry out completely. If the soil around the plant starts to feel dry, water it immediately.
Fertilization:
Oxypolis does not require a lot of fertilization, but it can benefit from occasional feeding. Use a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to keep the plant healthy and strong.
Soil:
Oxypolis prefers moist, well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in a variety of soil types, but it should never be allowed to dry out completely.
Sunlight:
Oxypolis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow well in deep shade.
Hardiness Zones:
Oxypolis can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxypolis is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some common problems.
Pests:
Some pests that can affect Oxypolis include aphids, spider mites, and slugs. These pests can be controlled with insecticides or by removing them by hand.
Diseases:
Oxypolis can be susceptible to leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew. These diseases can be controlled with fungicides or by removing infected plant parts.
Habitat
Oxypolis is native to North America and can be found in marshes, swamps, and wetlands. It can grow in shallow water or in damp soil and can tolerate periodic flooding. The plant provides important habitat and food for many wetland animals, including insects, birds, and small mammals.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Oxypolis?
A: Oxypolis should be kept moist at all times. Water it as soon as the soil around the plant starts to feel dry.
Q: Can Oxypolis grow in deep shade?
A: No, Oxypolis prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it will not grow well in deep shade.
Q: What are some common pests that can affect Oxypolis?
A: Some common pests that can affect Oxypolis include aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Q: What are some common diseases that can affect Oxypolis?
A: Some common diseases that can affect Oxypolis include leaf spot, rust, and powdery mildew.
Related Plants
- Apiaceae
- Dropwort
- Water Parsnip
- Water Hemlock
References
- https://www.britannica.com/plant/Oxypolis
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OXAD
- https://www.gardenia.net/plant/oxypolis-inflexa
