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Description
Oxytropis Borealis, commonly known as the Northern Locoweed, is a flowering plant native to the Arctic regions of North America. It is a member of the Fabaceae family and is known for its unique appearance and medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Oxytropis |
Appearance
Oxytropis Borealis is a low-growing perennial plant that reaches up to 20cm in height. It has a woody stem and small, oval-shaped leaves that are covered in fine hairs. The plant produces clusters of pink, purple or white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer. The flowers are followed by seed pods that are covered in fine hairs, making them appear fluffy.
Care Guide
Oxytropis Borealis is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance once established. Here are some tips on how to care for it:
- Water: This plant prefers well-drained soil and does not require frequent watering. Water only when the soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: This plant does not require fertilization.
- Soil: This plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: This plant prefers full sunlight but can tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 2-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Oxytropis Borealis is generally a healthy plant and is not prone to many pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is not well-drained.
Habitat
Oxytropis Borealis is native to the Arctic regions of North America, including Alaska, Canada, and Greenland. It grows in tundra and rocky areas and can tolerate cold temperatures and harsh conditions. It is an important food source for caribou and muskoxen, and has been used for centuries by indigenous people for medicinal purposes.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Oxytropis Borealis poisonous?
A: Yes, Oxytropis Borealis contains toxic alkaloids that can cause locoism in livestock if consumed in large quantities.
Q: Can Oxytropis Borealis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Oxytropis Borealis can be grown in a container as long as it has well-drained soil and receives enough sunlight.
Q: Can Oxytropis Borealis be propagated by seeds?
A: Yes, Oxytropis Borealis can be propagated by seeds. Sow the seeds in the fall or early spring and keep the soil moist until germination.
Q: Can Oxytropis Borealis be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, Oxytropis Borealis has been used for centuries by indigenous people for medicinal purposes, including treating coughs, colds, and skin conditions.
Related Plants
- Oxytropis campestris
- Oxytropis deflexa
- Oxytropis sericea
- Oxytropis viscida
References
- Al-Shehbaz, I. A. (2005). The genera of Brassicaceae in the southeastern United States. Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, 147-183.
- Hultén, E. (1943). Flora of Alaska and Yukon. Stanford University Press.
- Moore, J. (2014). Medicinal Plants of the Arctic: An Ethnobotanical Guide. University of Alaska Press.
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Oxytropis borealis. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=OXYBO
