Scrophularia Umbrosa

Description

Scrophularia Umbrosa, commonly known as Figwort or Water Figwort, is a perennial flowering plant that belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is a native plant of Europe and can be found in damp and shady places, such as woodland edges, hedgerows, and riverbanks.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Scrophularia Umbrosa plant grows up to 1.5 meters tall and 1 meter wide. It has a sturdy stem with a reddish-brown color and can be slightly hairy. The leaves are dark green, opposite, and have a heart-shaped base with serrated margins. The flowers bloom in the summer and have a dark purple color with a tube-like shape. They are arranged in a panicle-shaped inflorescence and can attract bees and butterflies.

Care Guide

Scrophularia Umbrosa is an easy-to-care-for plant that requires moderate maintenance. Here are some care tips:

• Water: Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant regularly during dry spells.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Plant in partial shade or full shade, as the plant prefers cool and damp conditions.
• Hardiness Zones: Scrophularia Umbrosa can grow in USDA hardiness zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Scrophularia Umbrosa is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be affected by the following:

• Aphids: These sap-sucking insects can cause stunted growth and curling leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Slugs and snails: These mollusks can eat the leaves and flowers. Use slug pellets or copper tape to protect the plant.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.

Habitat

Scrophularia Umbrosa is a native plant of Europe, where it can be found in damp and shady places, such as woodland edges, hedgerows, and riverbanks. It prefers cool and damp conditions, and it is not suitable for hot and dry areas.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Scrophularia Umbrosa toxic?
A: No, Scrophularia Umbrosa is not toxic to humans or pets.Q: Can Scrophularia Umbrosa be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Scrophularia Umbrosa can be grown in a container as long as it is large enough to accommodate the plant’s root system.Q: When is the best time to prune Scrophularia Umbrosa?
A: Prune Scrophularia Umbrosa in the late winter or early spring before new growth appears.Q: How can I propagate Scrophularia Umbrosa?
A: Scrophularia Umbrosa can be propagated by division in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.

Related Plants

• Scrophularia auriculata
• Scrophularia nodosa
• Scrophularia lanceolata
• Scrophularia marilandica

References

• “Scrophularia umbrosa.” Plant Finder. Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed 28 July 2021. <https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287065&isprofile=0&=&chr=3&prv=-1&prn=Scrophularia+umbrosa&st=PP&gclid=CjwKCAjwq9mLBhB2EiwAuYdA_LkEJ8eUWY6wv0EJlKs1_8DK1H0LzB87mcPnQ6iKJH7V0YwZIz7gBoCQe8QAvD_BwE>
• “Scrophularia umbrosa.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed 28 July 2021. <https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/66252/Scrophularia-umbrosa/Details>