Contents
Description
Saposhnikovia Divaricata, commonly known as Fang Feng or Divaricate Saposhnikovia, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Apiaceae. It is native to China and other parts of Asia and is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties. The plant can grow up to 1-2 meters in height and has a woody stem, which is covered with fibrous remnants of old leaves. It has small yellowish-white flowers that bloom in clusters from July to September and bear fruit that is small, oblong, and brown in color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Saposhnikovia |
Appearance
Saposhnikovia Divaricata has a distinct appearance with its woody stem, fibrous remnants of old leaves, and oblong brown fruit. The leaves are deeply divided into three to five lobes, which are lance-shaped and toothed. They are arranged alternately on the stem and are grayish-green in color. The flowers are small and yellowish-white, about 2-3 mm in diameter, and are arranged in clusters at the top of the stem. The plant can grow up to 1-2 meters in height and has a spread of about 1 meter.
Care Guide
Saposhnikovia Divaricata is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: The plant prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering. Water the plant when the top layer of soil is dry to the touch.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil pH levels.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Saposhnikovia Divaricata is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, keep the plant well-watered and fertilized, and remove any affected leaves or branches immediately.
Habitat
Saposhnikovia Divaricata is native to China and other parts of Asia, where it grows in rocky areas, along riverbanks, and on slopes. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America and Europe, where it is grown as an ornamental plant and used in traditional medicine.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Saposhnikovia Divaricata easy to grow?
A: Yes, it is a hardy plant that requires minimal care and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions.
Q: What is Saposhnikovia Divaricata used for?
A: The plant is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for its therapeutic properties, including its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic effects.
Q: What are the common pests and diseases that affect Saposhnikovia Divaricata?
A: The plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but may be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and powdery mildew.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Saposhnikovia Divaricata?
A: The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Related Plants
- Saposhnikovia Divaricata ‘Chuanxiong’
- Saposhnikovia Divaricata ‘Hoffmanii’
- Saposhnikovia Divaricata ‘Pink Spike’
- Saposhnikovia Divaricata ‘Spectral’
References
- “Saposhnikovia divaricata (Turcz. ex Ledeb.) Schischk.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Fang Feng – Saposhnikovia divaricata.” Chinese Herbs Healing.
- “Divaricate Saposhnikovia.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Saposhnikovia divaricata.” University of Connecticut Plant Database.
