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Description
Psoralea Laevigata, commonly known as the “Smootheleaf Scurfpea,” is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the family Fabaceae. The plant is native to the central and western parts of North America, including Canada and the United States. It grows up to a height of 1-3 feet and has a spreading growth habit.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Psoralea |
Appearance
Psoralea Laevigata has a unique appearance with its green leaves and purple flowers. The leaves are smooth and oval-shaped, with a length of 1-3 inches. The flowers bloom from June to September and grow in clusters on erect stems. The flowers are purple in color and have a sweet fragrance. The plant produces a small, brown, and hairy fruit that contains one or two seeds.
Care Guide
To take care of Psoralea Laevigata, it is important to provide it with proper water, fertilization, soil, sunlight, and hardiness zones. The plant prefers well-drained soil with a pH range of 6.0-7.0. It requires moderate watering and regular fertilization during the growing season. The plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade and grows well in hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Psoralea Laevigata is generally a healthy plant and is not susceptible to many pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by spider mites, aphids, and leafhoppers. The plant can also be affected by root rot if overwatered or planted in poorly-drained soil.
Habitat
Psoralea Laevigata is commonly found in prairies, meadows, and open woodlands. It grows in a variety of soils, including sandy, loamy, and clay soils. The plant is tolerant of drought and can survive in areas with low rainfall.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Psoralea Laevigata a poisonous plant?
A: No, Psoralea Laevigata is not poisonous, and it is safe to handle and consume.Q: Can Psoralea Laevigata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Psoralea Laevigata can be grown in containers, provided it is provided with adequate space and drainage.Q: How long does it take for Psoralea Laevigata to bloom?
A: Psoralea Laevigata blooms from June to September, and it takes about two to three years for the plant to reach maturity and start blooming.Q: Does Psoralea Laevigata have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Psoralea Laevigata has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin diseases, menstrual problems, and other health issues.
Related Plants
- Psoralea Argophylla
- Psoralea Corylifolia
- Psoralea Decumbens
- Psoralea Lanceolata
- Psoralea Macrostachya
References
- https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=PSLA
- https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=PSLA
- https://www.fs.fed.us/database/feis/plants/forb/psolaev/all.html
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/scurfpea/psoralea-plant-care.htm
