Contents
Description
Parietaria Officinalis, commonly known as Pellitory-of-the-wall, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the nettle family Urticaceae. It is native to Europe, but now can be found in many parts of the world. The plant has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic, laxative, and wound healing properties. It is also used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory and skin disorders.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Rosales |
| Family | Urticaceae |
| Genus | Parietaria |
Appearance
Parietaria Officinalis is a small, annual or perennial plant that can grow up to 50cm tall. It has a weak, fibrous stem that can easily break. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, and serrated, growing up to 10cm long. The flowers are small and greenish-white, arranged in clusters along the stem. The fruit is a small, oval-shaped nutlet.
Care Guide
Parietaria Officinalis is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full or partial shade. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Parietaria Officinalis prefers full or partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: It can grow in hardiness zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parietaria Officinalis is generally not susceptible to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These can be controlled with a miticide.
- Fungal diseases: These can be prevented by providing good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Parietaria Officinalis grows in a wide range of habitats, including walls, rock crevices, waste land, and disturbed areas. It prefers a warm and humid environment, and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Parietaria Officinalis?
A: Parietaria Officinalis has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic, laxative, and wound healing properties. It is also used in herbal medicine to treat respiratory and skin disorders.
Q: Is Parietaria Officinalis toxic to humans?
A: No, Parietaria Officinalis is not toxic to humans.
Q: Can Parietaria Officinalis be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Parietaria Officinalis can be grown indoors as long as it is provided with adequate light and moisture.
Q: Can Parietaria Officinalis be propagated by cuttings?
A: Yes, Parietaria Officinalis can be propagated by cuttings or by seed.
Related Plants
- Parietaria Judaica
- Parietaria Diffusa
- Parietaria Pensylvanica
References
- Flora of North America North of Mexico, Vol. 3
- Plants for a Future: Parietaria Officinalis
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Parietaria Officinalis
