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Description
Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum, also known as California Corn Lily, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to California and Oregon. It is known for its toxic properties and has been used in traditional medicines to treat various ailments. The plant grows up to 6 feet tall and has large, dark green leaves that are deeply ribbed. It produces clusters of small, greenish-white flowers that bloom in the late spring and early summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Magnoliophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Liliales |
| Family | Melanthiaceae |
| Genus | Veratrum |
Appearance
Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum has large, dark green leaves that can grow up to 18 inches in length and 6 inches in width. The leaves are deeply ribbed and have a slightly glossy texture. The plant produces clusters of small, greenish-white flowers that grow on tall stalks that can reach up to 6 feet in height. The flowers bloom in the late spring and early summer and are followed by small, greenish-brown fruits.
Care Guide
Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum prefers moist, well-drained soil and full to partial shade. It can tolerate some sun, but too much can cause the leaves to scorch. The plant requires regular watering, especially during dry periods. It is also important to fertilize the plant once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer. Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum is susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including slugs, snails, aphids, and spider mites. It is also prone to fungal diseases such as leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these issues, it is important to keep the plant healthy and well-watered. If pests or diseases do occur, they can be treated with insecticidal soap or a fungicide.
Habitat
Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum is native to California and Oregon and can be found growing in damp meadows, along streams, and in other moist habitats. It prefers cool, moist conditions and can tolerate some shade. The plant is often used in naturalistic landscapes and wildflower gardens.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum toxic to humans?
A: Yes, all parts of the plant are highly toxic and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death if ingested.
Q: Can Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum be grown in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the plant in containers, it prefers to be planted in the ground where it has room to grow and spread.
Q: Does Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum attract wildlife?
A: The plant is not known to attract wildlife, but it does provide habitat for certain insects and pollinators.
Q: How often should Veratrum Californicum Var. Californicum be fertilized?
A: The plant only needs to be fertilized once a year in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Veratrum Viride
- Veratrum Album
- Veratrum Nigrum
References
- “Veratrum californicum.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=278196&isprofile=0&genus=Veratrum.
- “Veratrum californicum var. californicum.” PlantFiles. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/56267/.
- “Veratrum californicum var. californicum.” Pacific Bulb Society. Accessed September 15, 2021. https://www.pacificbulbsociety.org/pbswiki/index.php/Veratrum_californicum_var._californicum.
