Circaea lutetiana aka Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade

Taxonomy

Genus Circaea Family Onagraceae Order Myrtales Class Magnoliopsida Phylum Tracheophyta
Circaea lutetiana, commonly known as Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade, is a perennial plant in the evening primrose family, Onagraceae. It is native to European woodlands and is named after the enchantress Circe of Greek mythology and the Latin name for Paris, Lutetia, which was sometimes referred to as the 'Witch City'. Despite its name, the plant is not especially toxic, but contains a lot of the astringent tannin. It typically grows in rich moist to medium-dry soils in dappled sunlight or medium shade and spreads by rhizomes and seeds. The small white flowers bloom in the summer.

Common names

Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade, Enchanter's Nightshade, Common Enchanter's Nightshade

How to care for Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade

Difficulty

Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade requires a bit more attention and knowledge to thrive, making it a suitable plant for those with some gardening experience.

Water

Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Lighting

To ensure optimal growth, the Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade prefers bright diffused light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi does not possess verified information regarding the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event that you, a member of your family, or a pet ingests plant material with an unclear toxicity level, it is highly recommended to seek the advice of a medical professional.

Growth-pattern

New growth will sprout from the top of the plant as it grows upwards.

Region of origin

Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade’s native range is Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa and Iran.

More info:
Wikipedia

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More Species in Circaea Genus

Circaea lutetiana Broadleaf Enchanter's Nightshade

Circaea alpina Alpine Enchanter's Nightshade