Contents
Description
Scutellaria Barbata, commonly known as the Chinese skullcap or Ban Zhi Lian, is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to China but can also be found in other parts of Asia, Europe, and North America. This plant can grow up to 50 cm tall and has square stems with opposite leaves. It produces small, blue to purple flowers that bloom from June to August.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Scutellaria |
Appearance
Scutellaria Barbata has a unique appearance with square stems and opposite leaves that are lance-shaped and toothed. The leaves can grow up to 8 cm long and have a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, tubular-shaped flowers that are blue to purple in color, with a white lower lip. The flowers grow in whorls around the stem and bloom from June to August.
Care Guide
Scutellaria Barbata is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips to help you take care of your Chinese skullcap:
Water: This plant prefers well-draining soil, so make sure to water it when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilization: You can fertilize your Scutellaria Barbata once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer. Avoid fertilizing in the winter when the plant is dormant.
Soil: This plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. You can add compost or peat moss to improve the soil’s fertility and drainage.
Sunlight: Scutellaria Barbata prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers in low-light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: This plant is hardy in USDA zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scutellaria Barbata is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to root rot if overwatered. It may also attract aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. You can control these pests by using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Scutellaria Barbata is native to China but can also be found in other parts of Asia, Europe, and North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and forests. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scutellaria Barbata safe to consume?
A: Yes, Scutellaria Barbata has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries and is considered safe when consumed in moderation.
Q: Can Scutellaria Barbata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Scutellaria Barbata can be grown indoors as long as it is placed in a sunny location and provided with well-draining soil.
Q: How often should I water my Scutellaria Barbata?
A: You should water your Scutellaria Barbata when the soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Q: How do I propagate Scutellaria Barbata?
A: Scutellaria Barbata can be propagated by dividing the plant in the spring or by taking stem cuttings in the summer.
Related Plants
- Scutellaria Lateriflora
- Scutellaria Baicalensis
- Scutellaria Integrifolia
- Scutellaria Incana
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/skullcap-plant/growing-skullcap.htm
- https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Scutellaria+barbata
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/scutellaria-barbata
- https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c385
