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Description
Scutellaria Repens, also known as Skullcap, is a herbaceous perennial plant that belongs to the mint family Lamiaceae. This plant is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including the eastern United States and Canada. The plant grows up to a height of 10-30 cm and spreads laterally by sending out runners. The leaves of Scutellaria Repens are oblong to oval in shape and are arranged oppositely on the stem. The flowers bloom in summer and are blue in color with a tubular shape. This plant is known for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat various ailments, including anxiety, insomnia, and inflammation.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Lamiaceae |
| Genus | Scutellaria |
Appearance
Scutellaria Repens is a low-growing plant that forms a mat-like ground cover. The leaves are green and glossy and have a slightly toothed edge. The plant produces blue flowers that are about 1 inch long and have a tubular shape. The flowers are arranged in a spike-like inflorescence at the top of the stem. The plant blooms in the summer and continues to produce flowers until the fall. Scutellaria Repens is an attractive plant that can be used as a ground cover in rock gardens or as a border plant.
Care Guide
Scutellaria Repens is an easy-to-care-for plant that thrives in a variety of conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
- Soil: Scutellaria Repens prefers well-draining, loamy soil.
- Sunlight: The plant prefers full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Scutellaria Repens is hardy in zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Scutellaria Repens is generally a healthy plant, but it can be susceptible to some pests and diseases:
- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant, causing stunted growth and leaf distortion. Use insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Spider mites: These tiny mites can cause yellowing leaves and webbing on the plant. Use insecticidal soap to control spider mites.
- Root rot: Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot. Make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid overwatering the plant.
Habitat
Scutellaria Repens is native to North America and can be found in many regions, including the eastern United States and Canada. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and can grow in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and along streams and riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Scutellaria Repens deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Scutellaria Repens is deer-resistant.
Q: How often should I fertilize Scutellaria Repens?
A: Fertilize the plant in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Q: Can Scutellaria Repens be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Scutellaria Repens can be grown in containers as long as the soil is well-draining and the plant receives adequate sunlight.
Q: Is Scutellaria Repens toxic to pets?
A: Scutellaria Repens is not known to be toxic to pets.
Related Plants
- Scutellaria Altissima
- Scutellaria Lateriflora
- Scutellaria Integrifolia
- Scutellaria Galericulata
References
- “Scutellaria repens.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=j860.
- “Scutellaria repens.” Plant Database, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=SCRE.
- “Skullcap.” The Herb Society of America, www.herbsociety.org/fact-sheets/scullcap/.
