Module 2

Baptisia australis. Image Source: normanack

Announcements

Learning Objectives

• Describe the ID characteristics of the plant species covered this week.
  
• Identify the strengths and weaknesses of this weeks plant species.
• Define the terms associated with plant species covered this week

Terms-to-Know

• leathery
• cymose panicle
• drupe
• wolly leaves
• pungent
• glandular
• rosette
• biennial
• perennial
• raceme

Digitalis purpurea. Image Source: tanakawho

Plant List

ERICACEAE
Rhododendron calendulaceum* - Flame Azalea

FABACEAE
Baptisia australis* - False Blue Indigo

LAMIACEAE
Stachys byzantina - Lamb's Ear

OLEACEAE
Chionanthus retusus - Chinese Fringetree

RUTACEAE
Ruta graveolens - Rue / Herb of Grace

SAXIFRAGACEAE
Heuchera americana* - Alumroot

SCROPHULARIACEAE
Digitalis grandiflora - Yellow Foxglove
Digitalis purpurea - Common Foxglove

Study Questions (10 pts each, answer in complete sentences)

1. Which plant this week has roots that are particularly attractive to voles?
2. Explain to a customer at your retail center the garden conditions necessary to establish foxglove so that they may enjoy it for years to com.
3. Your neighbor has a planting of foxglove that routinely reaches 7' in height. He thinks they were genetically modified and wants to get rid of them. Suggest two more likely alternatives.
4. Alumroot is native to this region and thrives under the right conditions. Describe those conditions for a gardener planting this species for the first time.
5. Ruta graveolens is related to other species that you are familiar with. List at least 2 other species that belong to the same family and describe common attributes among the species (family characteristics).
6. What is a common disease challenge for Stachys byzantina in the South? What can be done to minimize this issue?
7. Describe how to differentiate Chionanthus virginicus from Chionanthus retusus.
8. One plant species this week might have an advantage over others in poor soil conditions. Which plant is it? and explain its potential advantage.
9. Explain why Flame azalea shouldn't be used as a specimen plant. What is the proper way to use it in a landscape design?
10. The Chinese Fringetree is a member of the Oleaceae family. What other common landscape plants are members of this same plant family?

Extra Credit (define the following botanical terms, +1 for each correct definition)

• purpurea
• byzantina
• graveolens
• retusus

Flame Azalea. Image Source: rjones0856