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Description
Reseda, also known as mignonette, is a genus of flowering plants that belongs to the family Resedaceae. It includes around 60 species of annual or perennial herbs that are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia. Reseda is known for its fragrant flowers, which are often used in perfumes and cosmetics.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Resedaceae |
| Genus | Reseda |
Appearance
Reseda plants typically grow to a height of 30-60 cm and have a bushy habit. They have lance-shaped leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. Reseda flowers are small and come in shades of white, yellow, green, and pink. They are highly fragrant and have a spicy, honey-like scent that attracts bees and other pollinators.
Care Guide
Reseda plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for keeping your Reseda healthy:
Water: Reseda plants prefer evenly moist soil, so water them regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely between waterings.
Fertilization: Reseda plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Soil: Reseda plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can grow in a range of soil types, but avoid heavy clay soils.
Sunlight: Reseda plants prefer full sun to partial shade. They can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can cause them to become leggy and produce fewer flowers.
Hardiness Zones: Reseda plants are hardy in USDA zones 6-9. In colder climates, they can be grown as annuals or in containers that can be brought indoors during the winter.
Common Pests & Diseases
Reseda plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be susceptible to powdery mildew and spider mites. To prevent these issues, make sure to provide adequate air circulation around the plants and avoid overwatering. If you do notice signs of pest or disease infestation, treat the plants with an appropriate insecticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Reseda plants are native to Europe, North Africa, and Asia, and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and woodland edges. They are often used as ornamental plants in gardens and can be grown in containers on patios and balconies.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Reseda plants be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Reseda plants can be grown indoors in containers as long as they are provided with adequate sunlight and well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Reseda plants?
A: Reseda plants do not require a lot of fertilizer, but you can give them a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Q: Do Reseda plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Reseda flowers are highly fragrant and attract bees and other pollinators with their spicy, honey-like scent.
Q: Can Reseda plants tolerate drought?
A: No, Reseda plants prefer evenly moist soil and do not tolerate drought well. Make sure to water them regularly to keep the soil moist.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you might be interested in:
- Viola: a genus of flowering plants that includes over 500 species of annuals, perennials, and shrubs that are known for their colorful, fragrant flowers.
- Petunia: a genus of flowering plants that includes around 20 species of annuals and perennials that are known for their trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white.
- Mimulus: a genus of flowering plants that includes around 150 species of annuals and perennials that are known for their showy, trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of red, yellow, and orange.
References
- “Reseda.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 26 Aug. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reseda.
- “Reseda.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c840.
- Cornell University, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Reseda.” Cornell University, 2021, gardening.cals.cornell.edu/home-gardening/sceneaef3.html.
