Contents
Description
Tordylium is a genus of plants in the Apiaceae family. It includes around 20 species that are distributed throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. The plants are annual or perennial herbs that can grow up to 1.5 meters in height. They have a branched stem and compound leaves that are often deeply divided. The flowers are small and white or yellow and are arranged in umbels. The fruits are small and dry and have a curved shape.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Tordylium |
Appearance
Tordylium plants have a unique appearance that sets them apart from other plants in the Apiaceae family. They have deeply divided compound leaves that can be up to 20cm long. The stem is green and branched, and the flowers are small and white or yellow. The fruits are small and dry and have a curved shape, which is why the plant is sometimes called “hart’s-tongue”.
Care Guide
Tordylium plants are relatively easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of conditions. Here are some tips on how to care for your Tordylium plant:
- Water: Water your Tordylium plant regularly, but be careful not to overwater it. Allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings.
- Fertilization: Fertilize your Tordylium plant once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Soil: Tordylium plants prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Tordylium plants prefer full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Tordylium plants can grow in USDA hardiness zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tordylium plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that can affect Tordylium plants:
- Aphids: Aphids can infest Tordylium plants and cause stunted growth and yellowing leaves.
- Spider mites: Spider mites can also infest Tordylium plants and cause yellowing leaves and webbing.
- Root rot: Tordylium plants can be susceptible to root rot if they are overwatered or if the soil does not drain well.
Habitat
Tordylium plants are native to Europe, Asia, and Africa and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including meadows, fields, and along roadsides. They prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and weather conditions.
Questions and Answers
Q: Can Tordylium plants be grown indoors?
A: While Tordylium plants prefer to be grown outdoors, they can be grown indoors as long as they are kept in a sunny location and the soil is well-draining.
Q: Are Tordylium plants toxic?
A: There is no evidence to suggest that Tordylium plants are toxic to humans or animals.
Q: Can Tordylium plants be propagated by cuttings?
A: Tordylium plants can be propagated by seed or by division in the spring.
Q: Can Tordylium plants attract pollinators?
A: Yes, Tordylium plants are known to attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies.
Related Plants
- Angelica
- Cuminum
- Foeniculum
- Petroselinum
References
- “Tordylium.” Encyclopædia Britannica. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc., n.d. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.
- “Tordylium.” The Plant List. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and Missouri Botanical Garden. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.
- “Tordylium.” Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. n.d. Web. 12 Aug. 2021.
