Overview
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is a species of plant that belongs to the family Boraginaceae. It is also commonly known as the Chinese hound's tongue plant.Origin
This plant is native to China and can be found in various parts of the country, including the provinces of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet.General Appearance
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is a perennial herb that can reach up to 60 cm in height. It has a basal rosette of lanceolate leaves that are 10-20 cm long and 1-2.5 cm wide. The stem of the plant is erect and hairy. The flowers of the Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand are blue or purple and are arranged in a helix-shaped inflorescence.Uses
In traditional Chinese medicine, the roots of Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand are used to treat various ailments, including coughs, fever, and sore throat. The plant is also used as a folk remedy for snake bites. In addition to its medicinal uses, Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is also grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks. Its bright blue or purple flowers make it an attractive addition to any garden.Growth Conditions for Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand commonly referred to as Hound's-tongue, is a herbaceous perennial plant mainly found in rocky and hilly areas of the Mediterranean and Western Asia. To foster optimal growth, certain conditions, including temperature, light, and soil requirements, should be provided.
Light Requirements
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum requires full sunlight to thrive but still may do reasonably well in partially shaded areas. A minimum of six hours of direct sunlight is recommended, while ideally, 10-12 hours of direct sunlight is preferred. Thus, when planting the herb, it is crucial to ensure that the area is well-lit and open, free of any kind of shade and shelter.
Temperature Requirements
Regarding temperature conditions, this plant is most common in areas with relatively mild temperatures throughout the year. It can tolerate high temperatures and drought stress; however, it shows better growth at temperatures ranging between 20-30°C. The minimum temperature required by this plant is 10°C, while the maximum is about 40°C. Thus, it is imperative to provide a suitable temperature range throughout the growing season to promote healthy growth.
Soil Requirements
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum requires well-drained, nutrient-rich soil to thrive. It thrives in soils with a slightly acidic to a neutral pH of 6.0-7.5. The soil should not be too dry, but it should also be moist enough to promote growth. It is recommended that the soil be worked extensively before planting to root depth to allow for root penetration.
In summary, providing optimum growth conditions in terms of light, temperature, and soil quality will ensure that the plant grows healthily, resulting in a thriving, beautiful plant. Proper maintenance and care will also promote the formation of sturdy plants.
Cultivation methods
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand, commonly referred to as "Geometric Hound's-tongue," is a hardy perennial that requires well-draining and slightly acidic soil. The plant can be grown in full sun to partial shade and needs at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. The ideal USDA hardiness zone for Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is 4-8.
Watering needs
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand requires regular watering, especially during the growing season. The plant needs to be watered deeply at least once a week, and more frequently during hot and dry weather. It is important to avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot. Watering should be reduced during the winter months.
Fertilization
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand does not require frequent fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 NPK fertilizer, in the spring can be beneficial. Over-fertilization can lead to weak growth and decreased plant hardiness. It is important to follow the recommended guidelines for fertilization based on your soil type and the plant's growth stage.
Pruning
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand does not require extensive pruning. However, deadheading the spent flower stems can promote additional blooms and improve the plant's overall appearance. Cut the flower stems back to the nearest healthy leaf or node. Likewise, pruning the plant's foliage by removing any damaged or diseased leaves can help promote healthier growth and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand
Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is commonly known as Hound's tongue because of the shape and texture of its leaves. This plant is a biennial or short-lived perennial. It can be propagated by seeds or by division.
Propagation by seeds
The seeds of Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand can be sown directly in the garden in spring or fall. The soil should be moist and well-drained. The seeds should be sown thinly and covered with a thin layer of soil. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks. The plants should be thinned to a distance of at least 30 cm apart.
Propagation by division
The root system of Cynoglossum lanceolatum Forssk. subsp. geometricum (Baker & C.H.Wright) Brand is shallow and fibrous. The plant can be propagated by division in spring or fall. The clumps should be lifted and divided into smaller sections. Each section should have a good root system and a few leaves. The sections should be replanted immediately at a distance of at least 30 cm apart.
Disease Management
Cynoglossum lanceolatum subsp. geometricum is generally a hardy plant and not susceptible to many diseases. However, some diseases that may affect the plant include:
- Powdery mildew: this disease appears as white or grayish powdery patches on leaves and stems. It can be controlled by removing infected parts of the plant and using fungicides.
- Root rot: this disease is caused by the fungus Phytophthora cinnamomi and affects the roots of the plant, causing wilt and yellowing of leaves. It can be prevented by avoiding overwatering and ensuring proper drainage. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease.
- Leaf spot: this disease appears as brown or black spots on leaves and can be caused by various fungi. It can be controlled by removing infected parts of the plant and using fungicides.
Pest Management
Cynoglossum lanceolatum subsp. geometricum is also generally resistant to pests, but some pests that may affect the plant include:
- Aphids: these small insects can congregate on the undersides of leaves and suck sap from the plant, causing curling and distortion of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: these tiny pests can be identified by webbing on the plant and yellowing of leaves. They can be controlled by spraying the plant with water to dislodge them, or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Caterpillars: the larvae of some moth species can feed on the plant and cause damage to leaves and stems. They can be controlled by removing them by hand or using Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) insecticide.
