Viper's grass (Scorzonera humilis)

Viper's grass

Also known as: Dwarf viper's grass

Viper's grass is a perennial herb that is sometimes mistaken for a dandelion. The difference between the two lies in the shape of the leaves. Viper's grass is often found in damp grasslands or meadows and has a short flowering period.

Scientific classification

Species

Viper's grass (Scorzonera humilis)

Asters bellflowers fanflowers and allies

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Perennial

Lifespan

Herb

Plant Type

Summer

Bloom Time

Yellow

Flower Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

10 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Distribution of Viper's grass

Distribution Map

Viper's grass is a plant with a native range that spans across central, northern, and southern regions of Europe. Its presence extends from the temperate zones of the continent into the Mediterranean areas. Viper's grass has acclimatized over a broad swath of European landscapes, but it has not been widely introduced or naturalized outside of its indigenous region.

Native

Cultivated

Invasive

Introduced

No species reported

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Habitat

Moist meadows

Care Guide for Viper's grass

Every week

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

10 - 25 ℃

Ideal Temperature

Water: Viper's grass, native to temperate regions, prefers moderate watering and thrives with consistent soil moisture without waterlogging. Weekly watering maintains optimal hydration. Ideal for outdoor cultivation, it benefits from natural rainfall and is resilient against variable water availability, fitting well into seasonal growth cycles.

Fertilize: Viper's grass thrives with balanced nutrition from fertilizers with equal NPK ratios, applied monthly during growth and less in dormancy. Prioritize watering before granular application to prevent root damage. Tailor feeding to viper's grass's lifecycle for optimal vitality, ensuring robustness and longevity.

Pruning: Viper's grass has narrow, grass-like leaves and yellow flowers. Prune in early to late spring by removing dead foliage and spent blooms to enhance growth and flowering. Thinning crowded areas improves air circulation, reducing disease risk and aligning with the plant's natural growth cycle.

Propagation: Viper's grass is propagated by sowing seeds in a well-draining medium. Soaking seeds overnight can enhance germination. Sow them shallowly for light access and maintain consistently moist soil. Protect seedlings by thinning them to prevent overcrowding for optimal growth.

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