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Description
Smyrnium Olusatrum, also known as Alexanders or Black Lovage, is a biennial or perennial herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for thousands of years as a food and medicinal plant. The plant has a stout stem that can grow up to 1.5 meters tall and has a distinct aroma resembling that of celery. It produces yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, followed by small, black, oval-shaped fruits.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Smyrnium |
Appearance
The leaves of Smyrnium Olusatrum are bright green, glossy, and triangular-shaped, with toothed edges. They can grow up to 30 cm long and 20 cm wide. The stem is thick and hollow, with a furrowed surface. The flowers are small and yellow-green, arranged in umbels at the end of the stem. The fruits are black, oval-shaped, and about 5 mm long. The plant has a strong aroma that is similar to that of celery, and the taste of the leaves is slightly bitter and spicy.
Care Guide
Smyrnium Olusatrum is a hardy plant that can thrive in a variety of soil types and light conditions. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage healthy growth.
- Soil: The plant prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: The plant can tolerate partial shade, but it thrives in full sun.
- Hardiness Zones: Smyrnium Olusatrum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Smyrnium Olusatrum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and root rot. To prevent these diseases, make sure to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overwatering. The plant may also attract aphids, which can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Smyrnium Olusatrum is native to the Mediterranean region and can be found growing in meadows, hedgerows, and woodland edges. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Smyrnium Olusatrum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Smyrnium Olusatrum can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough and has adequate drainage.
Q: Is Smyrnium Olusatrum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves, stems, and young shoots of Smyrnium Olusatrum are edible and have been used in traditional Mediterranean cuisine for centuries.
Q: Does Smyrnium Olusatrum have any medicinal properties?
A: Yes, Smyrnium Olusatrum has been used in folk medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, rheumatism, and respiratory infections.
Q: How long does it take for Smyrnium Olusatrum to flower?
A: Smyrnium Olusatrum typically flowers in its second year of growth, but it can flower in its first year if grown under optimal conditions.
Related Plants
- Celery (Apium graveolens)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
- Carrot (Daucus carota)
References
- “Smyrnium olusatrum L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science. Accessed September 8, 2021. http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:844135-1.
- “Smyrnium olusatrum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 8, 2021. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279788.
- “Smyrnium olusatrum (Alexanders).” Gardeners’ World Magazine. Accessed September 8, 2021. http://www.gardenersworld.com/plants/smyrnium-olusatrum/.
