Contents
Description
Sanicula Crassicaulis, commonly known as Pacific Sanicle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the parsley family, Apiaceae. It is native to western North America, including parts of Alaska, California, and British Columbia. Sanicula Crassicaulis is a hardy plant that grows up to 60 cm tall and 30 cm wide. It has a stout, hairy stem with alternate, lobed, and coarsely toothed leaves. The plant produces small, greenish-white flowers that are arranged in umbel-like clusters. The flowers bloom from June to August and give way to tiny, prickly bur-like fruits that cling to clothing or fur.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Sanicula |
| Species | Crassicaulis |
Appearance
Sanicula Crassicaulis is a unique looking plant with its stout stem and lobed leaves. The leaves are dark green and grow up to 15 cm long and 10 cm wide. The stem is hairy and can range in color from green to reddish-brown. The flowers, which are small and greenish-white in color, are arranged in umbel-like clusters that can grow up to 5 cm wide. The fruits, which are tiny bur-like structures, are covered in spines that can easily cling to clothing or fur. Sanicula Crassicaulis is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of conditions.
Care Guide
Sanicula Crassicaulis is a hardy plant that requires little maintenance. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soils that are rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Sanicula Crassicaulis prefers partial to full shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sanicula Crassicaulis is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to powdery mildew, rust, and leaf spot if grown in humid conditions. Aphids and spider mites can also infest the plant. To prevent these problems, it is important to provide proper air circulation and avoid overwatering the plant. If pest or disease problems do arise, treat them with an organic pesticide or fungicide.
Habitat
Sanicula Crassicaulis is native to western North America and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, meadows, and rocky slopes. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soils and partial to full shade. It is often found growing alongside other native plants, such as ferns, trilliums, and bleeding hearts.
Questions and Answers
Q: Is Sanicula Crassicaulis an invasive species?
A: No, Sanicula Crassicaulis is not considered an invasive species. It is a native plant that plays an important role in its ecosystem.
Q: Can Sanicula Crassicaulis be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Sanicula Crassicaulis can be grown in a container as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant is provided with enough sunlight and water.
Q: How often should Sanicula Crassicaulis be fertilized?
A: Sanicula Crassicaulis should be fertilized once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: How long does it take for Sanicula Crassicaulis to flower?
A: Sanicula Crassicaulis typically blooms from June to August.
Related Plants
- Sanicula maritima
- Sanicula odorata
- Sanicula europaea
- Sanicula trifoliata
References
- “Sanicula crassicaulis.” Flora of North America.
- “Pacific Sanicle.” USDA Plants Database.
- “Sanicula crassicaulis.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
