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Description
Podophyllum Peltatum, commonly known as Mayapple, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to eastern North America. It is known for its umbrella-shaped leaves that grow up to 12 inches wide and its white or pinkish flowers that bloom in the spring. The plant grows up to 18 inches tall and produces a yellow, edible fruit that is only safe to eat when fully ripe.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Kingdom | Phylum | Class | Order | Family | Genus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eukaryota | Plantae | Spermatophyta | Magnoliopsida | Ranunculales | Berberidaceae | Podophyllum |
Appearance
Podophyllum Peltatum has a distinct appearance that makes it easy to identify. Its large, umbrella-shaped leaves have a smooth texture and are deeply lobed, with each leaf having 5-9 lobes. The flowers of the plant are either white or pinkish and are around 2 inches in diameter. The fruit of the plant is yellow and looks like a small apple, hence the name ‘Mayapple’. The plant has a fast growth rate and can spread quickly, forming large colonies over time.
Care Guide
Podophyllum Peltatum is an easy plant to care for, making it a great addition to any garden. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during the growing season, especially during dry spells.
- Fertilization: Feed the plant with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and again in mid-summer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial to full shade, but can tolerate some morning sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Podophyllum Peltatum can grow in hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Podophyllum Peltatum is generally pest and disease resistant, but it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and root rot. To prevent these diseases, avoid overwatering and provide good air circulation around the plant. The plant can also be attacked by slugs and snails, which can be controlled with slug bait or by handpicking.
Habitat
Podophyllum Peltatum is found in a variety of habitats, including wooded areas, meadows, and along stream banks. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. The plant is native to eastern North America and is commonly found from Ontario to Florida and as far west as Missouri and Texas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Podophyllum Peltatum toxic?
A: Yes, the plant is toxic if ingested in large quantities. All parts of the plant, except for the ripe fruit, contain a toxic substance called podophyllotoxin.Q: Can Podophyllum Peltatum be grown indoors?
A: While the plant can be grown indoors, it prefers to be outside in partial to full shade.Q: How long does it take for the fruit of the plant to ripen?
A: The fruit of the plant typically ripens in late summer to early fall.Q: Can the leaves of the plant be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Yes, the leaves of the plant contain podophyllin, a resin that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including skin diseases and cancer.
Related Plants
- Podophyllum hexandrum (Himalayan Mayapple)
- Podophyllum emodi (Indian Mayapple)
- Podophyllum pleianthum (Chinese Mayapple)
References
- “Podophyllum Peltatum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=a714.
- “Mayapple.” North Carolina State University, plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/all/podophyllum-peltatum/.
- “Podophyllum Peltatum.” University of Wisconsin-Madison, www.botany.wisc.edu/courses/botany_400/Podophyllum/Podophyllum.html.
