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Description
Triosteum Aurantiacum, commonly known as Orange-fruited Horse-gentian, is a perennial plant that belongs to the honeysuckle family. It is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and meadows. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall and has an upright habit with multiple stems. It blooms from late spring to early summer with small, orange-red flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by bright orange berries that are loved by various wildlife species, including birds and mammals.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Dipsacales |
| Family | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus | Triosteum |
Appearance
Triosteum Aurantiacum has an attractive appearance that makes it a great choice for gardens and landscapes. The plant has multiple stems that are covered with green leaves. The leaves are ovate to oblong in shape and have a rough texture. The plant blooms in late spring to early summer with small, orange-red flowers that are arranged in clusters. The flowers are followed by bright orange berries that are about 1/2 inch in diameter. The berries ripen in late summer to early fall and are a great source of food for wildlife species.
Care Guide
Triosteum Aurantiacum is an easy-to-care-for plant that can be grown in a variety of habitats. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:- Water: The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season and reduce watering in the winter.- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.- Soil: The plant prefers rich, loamy soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost before planting.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun. In hot climates, provide some afternoon shade.- Hardiness Zones: Triosteum Aurantiacum is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Triosteum Aurantiacum is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, here are some common issues to watch out for:- Aphids: These small insects can suck the sap from the plant and cause yellowing of the leaves. Use insecticidal soap to control them.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white powder on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide.- Leaf Spot: This fungal disease appears as brown or black spots on the leaves. Remove infected leaves and spray with a fungicide.
Habitat
Triosteum Aurantiacum is native to North America and can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, prairies, and meadows. The plant prefers moist but well-drained soil and partial shade to full sun. It is hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8 and can be grown in a variety of regions.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Triosteum Aurantiacum poisonous?
A: No, the plant is not poisonous to humans or animals.
Q: How often should I fertilize my Triosteum Aurantiacum?
A: Fertilize the plant once a year with a slow-release fertilizer in the spring.
Q: Can Triosteum Aurantiacum be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the soil is kept moist and well-drained.
Q: How tall does Triosteum Aurantiacum grow?
A: The plant can grow up to 3 feet tall.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants that you may also be interested in:- Triosteum Perfoliatum (Perfoliate Tinker’s Weed)- Triosteum Angustifolium (Narrow-leaved Horse-gentian)- Triosteum Pinnatifidum (Bastard Toadflax)
References
– “Triosteum Aurantiacum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 24, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c367.- “Triosteum Aurantiacum.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed June 24, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:854838-1.
