Contents
Description
Selinum is a genus of flowering plants in the Apiaceae family, commonly known as water dropworts or milk parsleys. This genus includes about 50 species of herbaceous perennials and annuals, many of which are native to Europe and Asia. Selinum is a beautiful plant that produces large, delicate flowers and has a unique appearance that makes it a favorite among gardeners.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Selinum |
Appearance
Selinum plants grow up to 4 feet tall and have large, lacy leaves that look similar to ferns. The flowers are small and white, but they are arranged in large, flat clusters that can reach up to 8 inches in diameter. The flowers are produced in late summer and early fall, and they attract bees and butterflies to the garden. Selinum plants have a unique shape that makes them stand out from other plants, with their tall, slender stems and umbrella-like flower clusters.
Care Guide
Selinum plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for growing Selinum:- Water: Selinum plants prefer consistently moist soil, so it’s important to water them regularly, especially during hot, dry periods.- Fertilization: Selinum plants don’t require much fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring.- Soil: Selinum plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. They can grow in a variety of soil types, but they prefer slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: Selinum plants prefer partial shade to full sun. They can tolerate full sun, but they may require more water in hot, dry conditions.- Hardiness Zones: Selinum plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Selinum plants are generally pest and disease-free, but they can be susceptible to a few common problems:- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white, powdery coating to appear on the leaves of the plant. It can be treated with a fungicide.- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the leaves and stems of the plant, causing stunted growth and yellowing leaves. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.- Slugs and snails: These pests can eat holes in the leaves of the plant. They can be controlled with a slug bait or by handpicking them from the garden.
Habitat
Selinum plants are native to Europe and Asia, and they can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodland edges, and along streams and rivers. They prefer moist soil and partial shade, but they can tolerate a range of growing conditions.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Selinum plants tolerate drought?
A: Selinum plants prefer consistently moist soil, so they may struggle in drought conditions. It’s important to water them regularly to keep the soil moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize Selinum plants?
A: Selinum plants don’t require much fertilizer, but you can give them a boost by adding a slow-release fertilizer to the soil in the spring.
Q: What is the best time of year to plant Selinum?
A: Selinum can be planted in the spring or fall, but it’s best to plant them in the fall if you live in a hot climate. This will allow the plants to establish their roots before the hot summer months.
Q: Can Selinum plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Selinum plants can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate their roots and they are watered regularly.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Angelica- Carrot- Parsley- Queen Anne’s Lace- Yarrow
References
– “Selinum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282690.- “Selinum.” Plant Delights Nursery. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://www.plantdelights.com/collections/selinum.- “Selinum.” Royal Horticultural Society. Accessed June 17, 2021. https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/20286/Selinum/Details.
