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Description
Torilis Japonica, commonly known as Upright Hedge Parsley or Japanese Hedge Parsley, is a biennial plant belonging to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Asia and Europe, and it can grow up to 1 meter (3 feet) tall. The plant is characterized by its erect stems, which are heavily branched and covered with small white flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Apiales |
| Family | Apiaceae |
| Genus | Torilis |
Appearance
The leaves of Torilis Japonica are pinnate, with narrow leaflets that are deeply divided. The flowers are small and white, and they appear in clusters on the ends of the branches. The plant produces fruits that are small, prickly, and brown, and they are shaped like burrs. The burrs can stick to clothing or animal fur, aiding in the plant’s dispersal.
Care Guide
Torilis Japonica is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of conditions. It prefers well-drained soil and full to partial sunlight. It can tolerate drought but benefits from regular watering. Fertilization is not necessary, but a general-purpose fertilizer can be applied in the spring. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 3-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Torilis Japonica is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be susceptible to aphids and spider mites. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or other natural insecticides. The plant can also be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These can be controlled by removing infected leaves and treating the plant with a fungicide.
Habitat
Torilis Japonica is commonly found in fields, waste places, and along roadsides. It can grow in a variety of soil types and is tolerant of both sun and shade. The plant is native to Asia and Europe but has been introduced to North America and other parts of the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Torilis Japonica an invasive species?
A: Torilis Japonica can be considered invasive in some areas, as it can spread quickly and outcompete native plant species.
Q: Can Torilis Japonica be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Torilis Japonica has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including inflammation, pain, and fever.
Q: What is the best way to propagate Torilis Japonica?
A: Torilis Japonica can be propagated by seed, which should be sown in the spring or fall. The seeds should be planted in well-drained soil and kept moist until they germinate.
Q: Is Torilis Japonica toxic to pets?
A: Torilis Japonica is not known to be toxic to pets, but the burrs can be irritating to the skin and eyes.
Related Plants
- Torilis Arvensis
- Torilis Nodosa
- Torilis Scabra
- Torilis Sphaerocephala
References
- “Torilis Japonica,” Missouri Botanical Garden, accessed June 23, 2021, https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b442.
- “Torilis Japonica,” USDA Plants Database, accessed June 23, 2021, https://plants.usda.gov/core/profile?symbol=TOJA.
- “Torilis Japonica,” Invasive Species Compendium, accessed June 23, 2021, https://www.cabi.org/isc/datasheet/54204.
