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Description
Scoliopus Bigelovii, commonly known as the California Fetid Adder’s Tongue, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Melanthiaceae family. It is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, specifically in California, Oregon, and Washington. The plant typically grows in moist, shaded areas, such as forests and stream banks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus | Scoliopus |
Appearance
Scoliopus Bigelovii typically grows up to 20cm in height and has a solitary, unbranched stem. The leaves are basal, typically measuring 5-10cm in length and 2-5cm in width. The plant produces a single flower, which is bell-shaped and measures 1-2cm in length. The flower color is typically purple-brown or maroon, although it can also be greenish or yellowish. The plant produces a fruit that is a capsule with 6 seeds.
Care Guide
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season.
- Soil: Scoliopus Bigelovii thrives in well-draining, humus-rich soil. A soil pH between 5.5-7.5 is ideal.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Scoliopus Bigelovii is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scoliopus Bigelovii is generally disease and pest-free. However, it can be susceptible to snail and slug damage. Using a slug bait can help control these pests.
Habitat
Scoliopus Bigelovii is native to the Pacific Northwest region of North America, specifically in California, Oregon, and Washington. The plant typically grows in moist, shaded areas, such as forests and stream banks. It can be found at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,000 meters.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Scoliopus Bigelovii grow in full sunlight?
A: No, Scoliopus Bigelovii prefers partial to full shade. Direct sunlight can scorch the leaves.
Q: How often should I water my Scoliopus Bigelovii?
A: Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot, dry weather. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged.
Q: Does Scoliopus Bigelovii attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Scoliopus Bigelovii is pollinated by bees and flies.
Q: Can I grow Scoliopus Bigelovii in a container?
A: Yes, Scoliopus Bigelovii can be grown in a container as long as it has well-draining soil and receives adequate moisture and shade.
Related Plants
- Scoliopus Hallii
- Scoliopus Uncinatus
- Scoliopus Bigelovii Var. Coeruleus
- Scoliopus Simplex
References
- “Scoliopus Bigelovii.” Pacific Bulb Society, www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Scoliopus.
- “Scoliopus Bigelovii.” Calflora, www.calflora.org/cgi-bin/species_query.cgi?where-taxon=Scoliopus+bigelovii.
- “Scoliopus Bigelovii.” Plant Finder, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=280590.
