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Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i
Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)-i

Cowbane

Scientific name
Cicuta virosa

Basic Information

Apiaceae Family Cicuta Genus Cowbane Species
Apiaceae > Cicuta > Cicuta virosa
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  • Forb/herb
  • Perennial
Height
100cm ~ 200cm
Flower Color
Leaf Color
Anthesis
summer
Sunlight Exposure
Full Sun
Hardiness Zones
5-9
Cold resistance
Excellent
Heat resistance
Fair
Habitat of origin
Europe, Asia
Growth Rate
Normal

What is Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)?

What is Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Cowbane, also known as Cicuta virosa, is a plant that belongs to the Apiaceae family. It is native to Europe and North America. The plant is described as its tall and erect stem, which can reach heights of up to 2 meters. The stem is hollow and has purple spots. The leaves are pinnately compound, with toothed leaflets. The flowers of Cowbane are small and white, arranged in umbels. The plant blooms from June to August. The flowers have a strong and unpleasant odor. The fruit of Cowbane is small and oval-shaped, with a brown color. It contains small seeds. The plant is considered a tough plant, containing a poisonous substance called cicutoxin. Swallowing any part of the plant can be fatal to humans and animals. The toxicity of Cowbane has led to its limited growing and use in cottage gardens. It is considered a nuisance in farmland fields and is often gotten rid of due to its effects that are harmful. Due to its toxicity, there is no known medical or culinary use for Cowbane. In summary, Cowbane is a tall and toxic plant with white flowers and small brown fruits. It is native to Europe and North America and is known for its poisonous nature.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Flower meaning

The Cowbane plant is not a common language of flowers. Its origin in american culture is not explained. So far, definitions of this flower meaning stay unclear. Regional and historical context matters for flower symbols. Definitions differ in location and eras.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Calendar of Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Calendar

Every two summer months cowbane blooms in the USA. It attracts pollinators with its vibrant colors. Provide sunlight and water for a longer blooming period. Remove dead flowers and leaves to prolong blooming.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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How to grow Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Watering

Cowbane, a plant species, requires a specific watering regimen to thrive. Good old Cowbane requires carefully attending so it can flourish. Periodicity of watering, this being twofold a day between vernal and autumnal equinoxes, shows Cowbane's water requirements during growth. Throughout this growth period, steadily providing moisture within 60-70% of maximal soil saturation can alleviate drought stress. Excess water harms Cowbane so drainage prevents waterlogging and rot. Dormancy in later autumn and winter necessitates reduced hydration twice per month. Appropriate irrigation thus sustains Cowbane's health. #N/A

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Soil and Fertilizer

Cowbane, also known as Cicuta, is a plant that thrives in moist soil conditions. Whenever handling this species, gardeners must exercise extreme caution. The plant grows best in dirt containing abundant organic material that drains well. Ideal pH levels for Cowbane lie between 6.0 and 7.5. While this species appreciates balanced fertilizer in spring, overfeeding encourages toxicity and stunted growth. During summer, resume fertilizing only if leaves yellow or development slows. In summary, Cowbane favors damp, nutrient-rich earth with a mildly acidic to neutral pH. However, its hazardous nature necessitates prudence.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Sunlight and Place

The species Cowbane tolerates coldness. It survives at -10 degree C, plausible for regions with cooler seasons. However, it struggles in freezing temperatures under -10 degree C for periods. Cowbane withstands high warmth to 35 degree C. It thrives in hot, arid climates. Though, it fights in extremely hot areas or long heatwaves. The ideal range for Cowbane is 15-25 degree C for prime growth. It handles slightly cooler or warmer temps, but prolonged exposure outside this range harms its health. In summer, Cowbane needs partial shade from intense light. It prefers filtered sunlight, especially at peak hours. Cowbane requires moderate sunlight, around 4-6 hours daily. This allows enough photosynthesis and healthy growth. But, excessive direct light for long can burn and damage the plant. In summary, Cowbane has moderate cold tolerance, good heat tolerance, and an ideal range of 15-25 degree C. It grows best with partial shade and 4-6 sunlight hours daily.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Advanced Information of Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Pruning

Cowbane, also known as Cicuta, is a plant that requires regular pruning and cutting back for various reasons. Pruning is necessary to maintain the plant's shape, promote healthy growth, and prevent overcrowding. It also helps to remove dead or diseased branches, improving the overall appearance and health of the plant. The best time to prune Cowbane is during its dormant period, which is typically in late winter or early spring. When pruning, it is important to use sharp tools to make clean cuts and minimize infection risk. After pruning, removing debris or fallen branches prevents diseases or pests spreading. Additionally, applying mulch around the base retains moisture and provides nutrients to support new growth. Regular monitoring and maintenance should ensure the pruned plant's continued health. The key is using sharp tools, removing debris, and applying mulch after pruning.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Planting and Harvest

Cowbane, also known as Cicuta, is a plant that can be potted or planted in the ground. It is planted in containers with drainage holes. Potting mix is added, leaving space for the roots. The plant is placed gently in the pot, spreading the roots evenly. More potting mix is added, pressing it down lightly to secure the plant. Water thoroughly after potting, and locate in partial shade. When repotting, use a slightly larger pot. Carefully remove from the current pot without damaging roots. Place in new pot, following potting steps. Water after repotting and continue care as usual. Incorrect care leads to poor growth or death. Provide adequate but not excessive water to avoid rot. Prefer moist soil and regular watering. Partial shade is best, not direct sun. Monitor for pests and diseases. Take action if necessary.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Propagation

To distribute Cowbane through scattering seeds, gather mature seeds from the plant and scatter them in a properly draining soil mixture. Keep the soil consistently damp and give indirect sunlight. Germination often takes around 2-3 weeks. For partitioning, carefully unearth the adult plant and separate the root clusters into smaller parts. Replant the partitions in individual containers or directly in the garden, making sure that each part has enough roots and leaves. Pour thoroughly and give adequate sunlight. To distribute through cuttings, take stem cuttings from the plant, making sure they have at least two nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone. Put the cuttings in a properly draining soil mixture and keep them in a warm and humid climate. Pour regularly and give indirect sunlight. Leaf cuttings can also be used for distribution. Take healthy leaves and cut them into smaller parts, making sure each part has a vein. Put the leaf parts in a properly draining soil mixture, keeping them moist and giving indirect sunlight. Roots will form from the veins, and new plants will emerge. To multiply Cowbane using various distribution methods, start by scattering seeds to get a larger number of plants. Once the plants have matured, divide them to make more individual plants. Additionally, take stem cuttings and leaf cuttings from the mature plants to further raise the number of distributed plants. Picking is not required for distribution purposes.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Pests and Diseases

Cowbane, also known as Cicuta, is susceptible to various pests and diseases. One of the common diseases that affect Cowbane is powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Erysiphe cichoracearum. Powdery mildew appears as a white powdery coating on the leaves, stems, and flowers of the plant. It can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and eventually, the withering of the plant. To prevent powdery mildew, it is important to provide adequate air circulation and avoid overhead watering. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure. Another disease that affects Cowbane is root rot, caused by various soil-borne pathogens such as Phytophthora and Pythium species. Root rot can cause the roots to become mushy and discolored, leading to the wilting and death of the plant. To prevent root rot, it is important to ensure well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Additionally, using disease-resistant varieties and practicing crop rotation can help reduce the risk of root rot. The commercially grown plants are bothered by several insects too. Some of these are like small bugs feeding on plant juice. They can cause distorted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the transmission of viral diseases. To control them, natural predators such as ladybugs can be introduced, or insecticidal soaps can be used. Overall, it is important to monitor Cowbane for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate preventive measures to ensure the health and vitality of the plant.

MichaelUrbanFarm
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Habitat of Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Habitat

Toxicity of Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

Health Benefits

edible
Inedible
Toxic
toxic

NO DATA

Toxic for dogs and cats

NO DATA

Q&A of Cowbane (Cicuta virosa)

  • Is there a recommended way to choose Cowbane?

  • How to Identify Cowbane Leaves?