Contents
Description
Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata, also known as kudzu or Japanese arrowroot, is a perennial vine native to East Asia. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is a vigorous plant that can grow up to 20 meters in length. The plant has been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is considered an invasive species.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Pueraria |
Appearance
The leaves of Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata are alternate and compound, consisting of three leaflets. The leaflets are ovate, with a pointed tip and a slightly serrated margin. The stems are twining and can reach up to 10cm in diameter. The flowers are purple and occur in clusters, with each cluster containing up to 30 flowers. The fruit is a flat pod that contains several seeds.
Care Guide
Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of conditions. It is relatively easy to care for and requires moderate watering and fertilization. The plant prefers well-draining soil and full to partial sun exposure. Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. The plant is particularly vulnerable to root rot, which can be caused by overwatering or poorly-draining soil. Other pests that may affect the plant include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Habitat
Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is native to East Asia, where it grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and along riverbanks. The plant has been widely introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is commonly found along roadsides, in fields and forests, and in disturbed areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata an invasive species?
A: Yes, Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is considered an invasive species in many parts of the world, including the United States.
Q: What is the preferred soil type for Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata?
A: Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata prefers well-draining soil.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata?
A: Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 10.
Q: What pests and diseases are common for Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata?
A: Pueraria Montana Var. Lobata is susceptible to root rot, spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies.
Related Plants
- Pueraria phaseoloides
- Pueraria thunbergiana
- Pueraria lobata
- Pueraria montana
References
- “Pueraria Montana.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Kudzu (Pueraria Montana).” Invasive Species Compendium.
- “Kudzu: The Vine That Ate the South.” The Nature Conservancy.
