There is no denying that the mandrake is quite the interesting and mythical plant. With legend, lore, and even its mention in the Bible, this plant is surrounded by centuries of mystique. Many gardeners may initially be drawn to mandrakes when looking to embrace a unique and mysterious element to flower containers and ornamental border plantings. Their enchanting fragrance adds further allure.
With proper care, like watering, this dark (yet beautiful) plant will produce vibrant, dark green foliage and elegant, white and pink-purple blooms.
About Mandrake Care
Mandrakes are perennials that are winter hardy to many growing zones. These toxic plants are generally easy to grow and do well in container culture. As with any toxic plant, special care should be taken to keep them away from kids, pets, or any other potential hazards.
Mandrake plants should receive ample amounts of sunlight; however, direct intense exposure to the sun may damage leaves. For best results, frequent fertilization with a balanced fertilizer will help to promote prolonged bloom. In addition to routine plant care, growers will need to pay close attention to mandrake irrigation requirements.
How Much Water Does a Mandrake Need?
When considering how to water mandrake plants, attention to plant drainage is of the greatest importance. Whether planted in the ground or grown in containers, it is important that mandrake plants are situated in soil that is light and well-draining. Container plantings will require multiple drainage holes to ensure that the plant’s needs are met.
While well-draining soil is important throughout the entire growing season, it is especially important during times in which the plants are dormant. Overwatering during dormancy (in the winter months) can lead to fungal issues, as well as issues with root rot.
Though mandrake water needs will fluctuate, it is best to allow plants to become dry before watering a mandrake plant. This will vary depending upon the season and growing conditions within the gardener’s climate zone. In general, it is best to allow the top few inches (5 to 10 cm.) of soil to completely dry before watering mandrake plants.
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Mandrake Winter Protection – Learn About Mandrake Winter CareMandrake is a plant steeped in history and myth. Although care should be taken, growing mandrake can be a fun way to be a part of history. Mandrake winter care is important to consider, though, before you start growing this Mediterranean native. Learn more here.
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Mandrake Propagation Guide – Tips For Growing New Mandrake PlantsGrowing new mandrake plants is quickest from roots or offsets, but you can also start them from seed. Propagation of mandrake from seed can be a little tricky unless you know a couple of crucial tips. Click this article to learn how to propagate mandrake.
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Mandrake History – Learn About Mandrake Plant LoreMandragora officinarum is a real plant with a mythical past. Known more commonly as mandrake, the lore generally refers to the roots. Beginning in ancient times, stories have included magical powers, fertility, possession by the devil, and more. Click here for additional info.
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Common Mandrake Uses – What Is Mandrake Used ForMandrake plants aren’t widely used today, although herbal mandrake is still used by some people. According to folklore, this fascinating plant was thought to have great powers, both positive and negative. What do you do with mandrake? Let’s find out here.
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Is Mandrake Poisonous – Can You Eat Mandrake RootFew plants have such a storied history rich in folklore and superstition as the poisonous mandrake. Can you eat mandrake? Ingestion of the plant was once thought to sedate and improve sexual function. Further reading here will help understand mandrake toxicity and its effects.
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Mandrake Division – How To Divide Mandrake RootsGrowing mandrake is a way to add history and myth to your garden. Mandrake division is one way to propagate this plant, but the roots are sensitive to disturbance, so it must be done with care. This article will help get you started with mandrake division in the garden.
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Mandragora Plants – Growing Mandrake Plant Varieties In The GardenIf you are interested in growing mandrake, there is more than one type to consider. There are several mandrake varieties, as well as plants called mandrake that are not from the same Mandragora genus. Want to learn more? Click this article for additional information.
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Potted Mandrake Care: Can You Grow Mandrake In PlantersWhile legends of screaming plant roots may sound terrifying to some, this petite flower is a beautiful addition to ornamental containers and flower plantings. Click on the following article for tips on caring for container-grown mandrake plants.
