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Description
Psoralea Alata, commonly known as the Heart-leaved Scurf Pea or the Winged Scurf Pea, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Fabaceae family. It is native to southern Africa and is found in various habitats, including grasslands and savannas. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used to treat various ailments, including skin conditions, fever, and menstrual problems.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Psoralea |
Appearance
Psoralea Alata is a perennial plant that can grow up to 1 meter tall. It has a woody stem and leaves that are divided into three leaflets. The leaflets are heart-shaped and have a pale green color. The plant produces long spikes of small, purple flowers that bloom in the summer. Each flower has a distinctive winged petal that gives the plant its common name. The fruit of the plant is a small, flat pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
To care for Psoralea Alata, it is important to provide it with well-draining soil and regular watering. The plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. Fertilize the plant once a year with a balanced fertilizer. Psoralea Alata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11 and can tolerate temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psoralea Alata is susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, including root rot and powdery mildew. To prevent these diseases, avoid over-watering the plant and provide good air circulation.
Habitat
Psoralea Alata is native to southern Africa and is found in various habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psoralea Alata safe to consume?
A: While Psoralea Alata is used for its medicinal properties, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before consuming the plant.
Q: Can Psoralea Alata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Psoralea Alata can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives regular watering.
Q: How often should Psoralea Alata be fertilized?
A: Psoralea Alata should be fertilized once a year with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Psoralea Alata?
A: Psoralea Alata is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.
Related Plants
- Psoralea Corylifolia
- Psoralea Decumbens
- Psoralea Pinnata
References
- “Psoralea alata.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/plantfinder/plantfinderdetails.aspx?kempercode=c565.
- “Psoralea alata.” PlantZAfrica. Accessed September 15, 2021. http://pza.sanbi.org/psoralea-alata.
- “Psoralea alata.” World Checklist of Selected Plant Families. Accessed September 15, 2021. http://wcsp.science.kew.org/namedetail.do?name_id=516231.
