Gillenia trifoliata aka Bowman's Root
Taxonomy ID: 6622
Gillenia trifoliata, commonly known as Bowman's root or Indian physic, is an erect perennial flowering plant in the family Rosaceae. Native to eastern North America, it can be found from Ontario to Georgia, and west to Kentucky, Arkansas, and Louisiana. This hardy plant grows up to 1m tall, with branched red-tinted stems and deeply veined bronze-green leaves that turn orange and red in autumn. From late spring to late summer, it produces airy clusters of starry pink flowers with narrow petals and reddish calyces on wiry red stems. The plant has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit and is well-suited for cutting. In Native American culture, the dried and powdered root of this plant was used as both a laxative and emetic. Gillenia trifoliata thrives in a sheltered position in partial shade, preferring acid or neutral soil.
Common names
Bowman's Root, Mountain Indian PhysicMore information about Bowman's Root
How difficult is it to take care of Bowman's Root
Caring for Bowman's Root is a breeze, as it is highly adaptable and forgiving to minor neglect.
What is the growth pattern and size of Bowman's Root?
The Bowman's Root is characterized by clumping growth, with new shoots emerging from the soil around the primary plant.
What is the region of origin of Bowman's Root
Bowman's Root’s native range is Eastern N. America - Ontario and New York, east to Michigan and south to Georgia and Missouri.
What are the water needs for Bowman's Root
Bowman's Root should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
What is the right soil for Bowman's Root
Bowman's Root loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
What is the sunlight requirement for Bowman's Root
To ensure optimal growth, the Bowman's Root prefers bright indirect 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.
How to fertilize Bowman's Root
The Bowman's Root should be repotted when it has doubled in size or annually, whichever comes first. Providing fresh potting soil with all the essential nutrients each year ensures the plant's well-being, eliminating the need for fertilizer. Remember, plants derive their energy from the sun and not fertilizer.
Is Bowman's Root toxic to humans/pets?
Ploi lacks confirmed information on the toxicity of this plant. If you, a relative, or your pet accidentally consume plant material with unknown toxicity, it's best to consult a medical expert.
More info:
Wikipedia
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