Common cow-wheat (Melampyrum pratense)

Common cow-wheat

Also known as: Horse flower

Common cow-wheat grows on woodland edges, mostly in acidic soil. It's partly a parasitic plant, drawing on the nutrients obtained from surrounding plants. The larvae of the rare heath fritillary butterfly feed on common cow-wheat, and the plant attracts wood ants, which feed on a liquid it produces and then disperse its seeds.

Scientific classification

Species

Common cow-wheat (Melampyrum pratense)

Mints plantains olives and allies

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Annual

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

10 cm to 40 cm

Plant Height

10 cm to 50 cm

Spread

1 cm to 1.8 cm

Flower Size

Yellow, Gold

Flower Color

Images of Common cow-wheat

Distribution of Common cow-wheat

Distribution Map

Common cow-wheat is a plant primarily native to temperate regions of Eurasia. Over time, it has also been introduced to additional major regions, with a notable presence in parts of northern Asia.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Woods, Scrub, Heaths and upland moorlands

Quickly Identify Common cow-wheat

Annual herb with hemiparasitic growth habit, reaching 1-2 feet (30-60 cm) tall.

Lance-shaped leaves in clusters, with erect stems and tubular flowers in yellow to purple.

Single, long-tubed pale yellow flowers in pairs, orienting uniformly with leafy bracts.

Elliptic flat capsule fruit, twice calyx length, containing 4 seeds, compact in size.

Narrow, smooth, tapering leaves arranged in distant pairs, each pair at right angles.

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Care Guide for Common cow-wheat

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

20 - 32 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Common cow-wheat thrives in moist conditions, preferring consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Moderately drought-tolerant, it requires weekly watering. Benefiting from rainwater that mimics natural patterns, common cow-wheat enhances growth and resilience as an herbaceous species commonly grown outdoors.

Fertilize: To care for common cow-wheat, use balanced fertilizers with high-nitrogen options during growth. Fertilize biweekly in spring, then monthly in fall, following manufacturer guidelines. Avoid over-fertilization and ensure even soil distribution. This promotes common cow-wheat's health while considering its ecological impact.

Pruning: Common cow-wheat benefits from periodic pruning in early to late spring to promote health and growth. Start by removing dead stems, then shape for airflow. Use clean tools for precise cuts to reduce infection risk, ensuring vibrant blooms while preventing legginess.

Propagation: Common cow-wheat is a herbaceous annual or biennial plant that prefers woodland and grassy areas. Effective propagation involves direct seed sowing in well-draining substrate, mimicking its natural habitat. Consistent moisture is essential, and once established, common cow-wheat can self-seed, leading to naturalized populations.

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Images of Common cow-wheat

Distribution of Common cow-wheat

Quickly Identify Common cow-wheat

Care Guide for Common cow-wheat

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