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Description
Wigandia Urens, also known as giant hyssop or Mexican false nettle, is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Hydrophyllaceae. It is native to Mexico and Central America, but it can also be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Brazil, and Australia. The plant can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide and has large, heart-shaped leaves that can be up to a foot long. It produces clusters of small, purple flowers that bloom in the summer.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Genus | Wigandia |
Appearance
Wigandia Urens has a striking appearance with its large, heart-shaped leaves that are velvety to the touch. The leaves can be up to a foot long and 8 inches wide, and they are green on top and purplish on the underside. The plant can grow up to 12 feet tall and 10 feet wide, and it has an upright growth habit. In the summer, it produces clusters of small, purple flowers that bloom on tall spikes.
Care Guide
Wigandia Urens requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather. It prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. The plant prefers partial to full sun and can tolerate temperatures down to 30°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Wigandia Urens is generally a hardy and disease-resistant plant, but it can be susceptible to spider mites and whiteflies. Regularly inspect the plant for signs of infestation, and treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil if necessary.
Habitat
Wigandia Urens is native to Mexico and Central America, where it grows in the understory of forests and along riverbanks. It prefers warm and humid climates, but it can also tolerate drier conditions. The plant has been introduced to other parts of the world, including the United States, Brazil, and Australia, where it is often grown as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Wigandia Urens a good plant for beginners?
A: Wigandia Urens can be a challenging plant to care for, and it is best suited for experienced gardeners.
Q: Can Wigandia Urens be grown indoors?
A: While Wigandia Urens can be grown indoors, it requires a lot of space and bright, indirect light to thrive.
Q: How often should I fertilize Wigandia Urens?
A: Fertilize Wigandia Urens once a month during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Wigandia Urens?
A: Wigandia Urens is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Wigandia Caracasana
- Wigandia Chiricahuensis
- Wigandia Fornicata
- Wigandia Glabra
- Wigandia Macrophylla
References
- “Wigandia Urens.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b840
- “Wigandia Urens.” PlantFiles. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/55936/
- “Wigandia Urens Giant Hyssop.” San Marcos Growers. https://www.smgrowers.com/products/plants/plantdisplay.asp?plant_id=2549
