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Description
Scandix Pecten-Veneris, commonly known as Shepherd’s-needle, is a flowering plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. The plant grows up to 60 cm tall and has finely divided, feathery leaves. The flowers are small and white, clustered in umbels, and bloom from May to August. The fruit is a small, dry, ribbed, and elongated capsule.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Scandix |
| Species | Pecten-Veneris |
Appearance
Scandix Pecten-Veneris has finely divided, feathery leaves that are pinnate and alternate. The leaves are up to 10 cm long and are divided into many small segments. The stem is slender and branched with small white flowers that are clustered in umbels. The flowers bloom from May to August and give way to small, dry, ribbed, and elongated capsules that contain the seeds.
Care Guide
Scandix Pecten-Veneris is an easy-to-grow plant that requires minimal care. It prefers well-draining soil and full sun to partial shade. Water the plant regularly but do not overwater as it can cause root rot. Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. The plant is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but is best suited for hardiness zones 3-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scandix Pecten-Veneris is generally pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent fungal diseases, avoid overhead watering and ensure good air circulation around the plant. Insects such as aphids and spider mites can occasionally infest the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control these pests.
Habitat
Scandix Pecten-Veneris is native to Europe and Asia and is commonly found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It grows in well-draining soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures but is best suited for hardiness zones 3-8.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scandix Pecten-Veneris be grown indoors?
A: No, Scandix Pecten-Veneris is an outdoor plant and cannot be grown indoors.
Q: How often should I fertilize Scandix Pecten-Veneris?
A: Fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the best time to plant Scandix Pecten-Veneris?
A: The best time to plant Scandix Pecten-Veneris is in the spring when the soil has warmed up and all frost danger has passed.
Q: How do I propagate Scandix Pecten-Veneris?
A: Scandix Pecten-Veneris can be propagated by seed in the spring or by division in the fall.
Related Plants
- Scandix Anethifolia
- Scandix Stellata
- Scandix Aemula
- Scandix Pinnatifida
References
- Flora Europaea
- Plants For A Future
- RHS
