Contents
Description
Parthenium Integrifolium, known by the common name wild quinine, is a flowering plant native to North America. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall and spread up to 2 feet wide. The plant produces clusters of small, white flowers that bloom in late summer through early fall. The flowers attract pollinators such as butterflies and bees. The leaves of Parthenium Integrifolium are lance-shaped and can grow up to 6 inches long. The plant has a strong, bitter taste and odor.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Parthenium |
Appearance
Parthenium Integrifolium has a unique appearance with its tall, slender stems and clusters of small, white flowers. The plant produces lance-shaped leaves that can grow up to 6 inches long. The leaves are dark green and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers of the plant grow in clusters at the top of the stems and bloom in late summer through early fall. The flowers are small and white, with a yellow center. The plant has a strong, bitter taste and odor.
Care Guide
To care for Parthenium Integrifolium, it is important to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to neutral. It can tolerate some drought but prefers to be watered regularly. Fertilization is not necessary but can be beneficial in the spring when new growth appears. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Parthenium Integrifolium is generally a disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests such as aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to powdery mildew, which can be controlled by improving air circulation around the plant and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
Parthenium Integrifolium is native to North America and can be found in prairies, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun but can tolerate some shade. It is hardy in zones 3-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Parthenium Integrifolium be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Parthenium Integrifolium can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system and the soil is well-drained.
Q: Is Parthenium Integrifolium a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Parthenium Integrifolium has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, malaria, and digestive issues.
Q: Can Parthenium Integrifolium be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, Parthenium Integrifolium can be propagated from softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in the summer.
Q: Does Parthenium Integrifolium attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Parthenium Integrifolium flowers attract butterflies and bees.
Related Plants
- Parthenium Hysterophorus
- Parthenium Auriculatum
- Parthenium Incanum
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PAIN2
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/parthenium/wild-quinine-plant-care.htm
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Parthenium+integrifolium
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=h450
