Contents
Description
Sonchus Tenerrimus, commonly known as the Slender Sowthistle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the dandelion family. This plant species is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely distributed throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East. It typically grows in disturbed areas such as fields, roadsides, and waste places.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Sonchus |
| Species | Sonchus tenerrimus |
Appearance
Sonchus Tenerrimus is a tall, slender, and sparsely branched plant that can grow up to 130cm in height. It has a long taproot and a slightly hairy stem that is green or purple in color. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate, and have a wavy margin with spiny teeth. The flowers are arranged in clusters at the end of the branches and are yellow in color. The fruit is an achene with a pappus of white hair.
Care Guide
Sonchus Tenerrimus is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and pH levels. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun exposure. Watering should be done regularly to keep the soil moist, especially during hot and dry periods. Fertilization is not necessary, but a well-balanced fertilizer can be applied during the growing season. This plant is hardy to USDA zones 7-10, and it can be propagated by seed or division. To propagate by seed, sow the seeds in the spring or fall. To propagate by division, dig up the plant and divide the root system into smaller sections.
Common Pests & Diseases
Sonchus Tenerrimus is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, it may occasionally be affected by aphids, whiteflies, and spider mites. These can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or neem oil. Root rot may occur in poorly drained soils, so it is important to ensure proper drainage.
Habitat
Sonchus Tenerrimus is a widely distributed plant species that can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, roadsides, waste places, and disturbed areas. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is widely distributed throughout Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Sonchus Tenerrimus a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Sonchus Tenerrimus has been traditionally used in Mediterranean folk medicine to treat various ailments such as liver disorders, hypertension, and diabetes.
Q: Can Sonchus Tenerrimus be grown indoors?
A: No, Sonchus Tenerrimus is an outdoor plant that requires full sun exposure to thrive.
Q: How tall can Sonchus Tenerrimus grow?
A: Sonchus Tenerrimus can grow up to 130cm in height.
Q: Does Sonchus Tenerrimus attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Sonchus Tenerrimus attract various pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hoverflies.
Related Plants
- Sonchus arvensis
- Sonchus asper
- Sonchus oleraceus
- Sonchus palustris
References
- https://www.gbif.org/species/3077409
- https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/50797
- https://www.pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Sonchus+tenerrimus
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4420038/
