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Description
Porophyllum Ruderale, commonly known as Papaloquelite, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the Asteraceae family. It is native to Central and South America and can be found in Mexico, Peru, and Argentina. This plant is widely used in Mexican cuisine for its unique flavor and aroma that resembles cilantro and arugula with hints of citrus.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Porophyllum |
Appearance
Porophyllum Ruderale can grow up to 1 meter in height and has a bushy growth habit. The leaves are smooth and glossy, with a bright green color and serrated edges. The flowers are small and yellow, growing in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant produces seeds that are dark brown and flat, with a papery texture.
Care Guide
Porophyllum Ruderale is a low-maintenance plant that can thrive in various conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Papaloquelite:
Water: Water your plant regularly, but make sure that the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.
Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil: Porophyllum Ruderale prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. Use a potting mix that is rich in organic matter.
Sunlight: This plant needs full sun to thrive, so make sure to place it in a sunny spot.
Hardiness Zones: Porophyllum Ruderale is hardy in zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Porophyllum Ruderale is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some issues. Here are some common pests and diseases that can affect this plant:
Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves and cause yellowing and stunted growth. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
Whiteflies: These small, white insects can also feed on the sap of the plant and cause leaf yellowing. Use yellow sticky traps or neem oil to control them.
Root Rot: Overwatering or poorly drained soil can lead to root rot, which can cause the plant to wilt and die. Make sure to water your plant only when the soil is dry to the touch.
Habitat
Porophyllum Ruderale is native to Central and South America and can be found in various habitats, including rocky slopes, dry plains, and disturbed areas. It prefers warm, dry climates and can tolerate drought and heat.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Porophyllum Ruderale be grown indoors?
A: Yes, this plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives plenty of sunlight and is not overwatered.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Porophyllum Ruderale?
A: You should fertilize your plant every two weeks during the growing season.
Q: Can I use Papaloquelite as a substitute for cilantro?
A: Yes, Papaloquelite has a similar flavor to cilantro and can be used as a substitute in many recipes.
Q: Does Porophyllum Ruderale attract bees?
A: Yes, this plant produces small, yellow flowers that can attract bees and other pollinators.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants to Porophyllum Ruderale:
- Arugula (Eruca sativa)
- Cilantro (Coriandrum sativum)
- Mexican Tarragon (Tagetes lucida)
- Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
References
- “Porophyllum ruderale.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 10 June 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=285795&isprofile=0&
- “Porophyllum ruderale.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed 10 June 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:240449-1
- “Papaloquelite: Health Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, Dosage & Interactions.” RxList. Accessed 10 June 2021. https://www.rxlist.com/papaloquelite/supplements.htm
