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Description
Triadenum is a genus of flowering plants in the family Hypericaceae, commonly known as marsh St. John’s wort. This genus comprises of only two species, Triadenum fraseri and Triadenum virginicum. These species are native to eastern North America and can be found growing in damp, marshy areas or along riverbanks.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Malpighiales |
| Family | Hypericaceae |
| Genus | Triadenum |
Appearance
Triadenum plants are small, herbaceous perennials that typically grow to be about 1-2 feet tall. They have simple, opposite leaves that are elliptical in shape and about 1-3 inches long. The leaves are dark green and glossy on the upper surface, while the lower surface is paler and slightly fuzzy. The flowers of Triadenum plants are small, star-shaped and yellow in color, and they bloom from mid-summer to early fall. They are borne in clusters at the end of the stems and are very attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Care Guide
Triadenum plants are relatively easy to grow and care for. Here are some tips to help you keep your Triadenum plants healthy and thriving:- Water: Triadenum plants prefer consistently moist soil, so be sure to water them regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.- Fertilization: These plants do not require much fertilization, but you can give them a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.- Soil: Triadenum plants prefer rich, moist soil that is well-draining. They can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil.- Sunlight: These plants prefer full sun to partial shade, with some protection from intense afternoon sun.- Hardiness Zones: Triadenum plants are hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Triadenum plants are generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, they may occasionally be affected by fungal diseases like powdery mildew or rust. To prevent these issues, be sure to provide good air circulation around the plants and avoid overhead watering.
Habitat
Triadenum plants are native to eastern North America and can be found growing in damp, marshy areas or along riverbanks. They are well-suited to wetland gardens, rain gardens, or other areas with moist soil.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Triadenum plants tolerate dry soil?
A: No, Triadenum plants prefer consistently moist soil and may struggle if the soil becomes too dry.
Q: Are Triadenum plants attractive to pollinators?
A: Yes, the flowers of Triadenum plants are very attractive to pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: Can Triadenum plants be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Triadenum plants can be grown in containers as long as the soil remains consistently moist.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Triadenum plants?
A: Triadenum plants do not require much fertilization, but you can give them a light application of a balanced fertilizer in the spring if desired.
Related Plants
– Hypericum perforatum (common St. John’s wort)- Hypericum calycinum (Aaron’s beard)- Hypericum frondosum (golden St. John’s wort)- Hypericum ‘Hidcote’ (St. John’s wort)
References
– “Triadenum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c340.- “Triadenum.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/browse/A/Hypericaceae/Triadenum/.
