Contents
Description
Scutellaria Orientalis, also known as Oriental Skullcap, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. It is native to Asia and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its medicinal properties. The plant can reach a height of 20-60 cm and has a spread of 30-60 cm. It produces small, blue or 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 Orientalis has an upright growth habit and produces square stems that are green or purple in color. The leaves are ovate to lanceolate in shape and have a serrated margin. They are dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers are small and tubular, measuring about 1 cm in length. They are arranged in whorls along the stem and can be blue or purple in color. The plant blooms from June to August.
Care Guide
Scutellaria Orientalis is easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
Water: Oriental Skullcap prefers well-drained soil that is kept consistently moist. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry weather.
Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Soil: Scutellaria Orientalis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, but prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil.
Sunlight: Oriental Skullcap prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but may produce fewer flowers in low light conditions.
Hardiness Zones: Scutellaria Orientalis is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scutellaria Orientalis is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may be susceptible to root rot if grown in soil that is too wet. Some pests that may affect Oriental Skullcap include spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Scutellaria Orientalis is native to Asia and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, meadows, and forest edges. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scutellaria Orientalis a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Scutellaria Orientalis has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Q: Can Scutellaria Orientalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Oriental Skullcap can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-drained and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: How often should Scutellaria Orientalis be fertilized?
A: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Scutellaria Orientalis?
A: Scutellaria Orientalis is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Scutellaria Orientalis:
- Scutellaria baicalensis
- Scutellaria lateriflora
- Scutellaria galericulata
- Scutellaria altissima
References
- “Scutellaria Orientalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c147.
- “Scutellaria Orientalis.” PlantFiles, Dave’s Garden, www.davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/182401/.
- “Scutellaria Orientalis.” Royal Horticultural Society, www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/62797/Scutellaria-orientalis/Details.
