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Description
Tephrosia Virginiana, commonly known as goat’s rue, is a plant species from the Fabaceae family that is native to the United States. It is a perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide, with a woody base and green stems. The leaves are pinnately compound, with 9-21 leaflets that are oval or elliptical in shape and about 1 inch long. The flowers are pink or purple and are arranged in a spike-like cluster. The fruit is a hairy, flattened, and elongated pod that contains several seeds.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Tephrosia |
Appearance
Tephrosia Virginiana is a beautiful plant with some unique and attractive features. The leaves are bright green in color and have a lacy, delicate appearance. The flowers are pink or purple and bloom in late spring or early summer, forming a tall spike-like cluster that can be up to 8 inches long. The fruit is a hairy, flattened, and elongated pod that can be up to 3 inches long. Overall, Tephrosia Virginiana is a beautiful and eye-catching plant that can add color and texture to any garden or landscape.
Care Guide
Tephrosia Virginiana is a relatively easy plant to care for, but it does require some attention to thrive. Here are some tips for caring for this plant:
- Water: Tephrosia Virginiana prefers well-drained soil and does not do well in wet conditions. Water the plant regularly but be careful not to overwater.
- Fertilization: Tephrosia Virginiana does not require much fertilization but can benefit from a slow-release fertilizer applied in the spring.
- Soil: Tephrosia Virginiana prefers well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
- Sunlight: Tephrosia Virginiana prefers full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tephrosia Virginiana is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tephrosia Virginiana is not highly susceptible to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by some common problems:
- Aphids: These sucking insects can cause yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These tiny pests can cause bronzing of the leaves and webbing on the plant. Control with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease can cause yellowing and dropping of the leaves. Remove affected leaves and treat with a fungicide if necessary.
- Root rot: This disease can be caused by overwatering or poorly-drained soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering.
Habitat
Tephrosia Virginiana is native to the United States and can be found in many different habitats, including open fields, meadows, and roadsides. It prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can also tolerate drought and is often used in xeriscaping.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Tephrosia Virginiana toxic to animals?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Virginiana is toxic to animals if ingested in large quantities. It contains alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other symptoms.
Q: Can Tephrosia Virginiana be grown from seed?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Virginiana can be grown from seed. Sow the seeds in the spring, either directly in the garden or in pots indoors.
Q: Can Tephrosia Virginiana be used as a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Virginiana has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of conditions, including diabetes, fever, and inflammation. However, it should not be used without consulting a healthcare professional.
Q: Does Tephrosia Virginiana attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Tephrosia Virginiana is attractive to bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, making it a great addition to a pollinator garden.
Related Plants
- Tephrosia chrysophylla
- Tephrosia cinerea
- Tephrosia elegans
- Tephrosia florida
- Tephrosia fulvinervis
- Tephrosia ghanaensis
- Tephrosia grandiflora
- Tephrosia hamiltonii
- Tephrosia hispida
References
- “Tephrosia virginiana.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c147.
- “Goat’s Rue.” North Carolina State University Extension, content.ces.ncsu.edu/goats-rue.
- “Tephrosia Virginiana.” Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=TEVI.
