Kupena is an unusually spectacular plant that surprises everyone who sees it for the first time. The elongated oval glossy leaves resemble a hosta, the delicate white flowers resemble a bell, and the dense thickets of kupena look almost the same as lily of the valley fields. Thanks to its expressive appearance and unpretentiousness, this forest beauty has settled down densely in our gardens, becoming the favorite of many flower growers.

The plant looks unusually good in flower beds and adorns the shady corners of the garden. Snow-white flowers that appear in early summer stand out against a background of rich greenery. Dark blue berries ripening in August are also pretty.

The people often call the kupena the seal of King Solomon or simply the Solomon seal. Where such a name came from, referring to the biblical ruler, is not exactly known. According to one version, thickenings on the roots of the plant look like a seal, according to another, the cut roots are shaped like the Hebrew alphabet. The official name of the flower is derived from two Greek words, translated as "many" and "knee", which indicates the structure of a long rhizome, consisting of a large number of knees or joints.

In the Russian provinces, the kupena was called differently: wolf eyes, crow eyes, raven, wolf berry, magpie eyes, smooth, crane, hellebore, etc.

Kupena is known not only for its beauty. It is both a medicinal and an edible plant.

A mixture of varieties of kupene is used in traditional Chinese medicine to restore energy, increase vitality, and relieve tension. In 1930, German pharmacologist Hedwig Langecker discovered that the plant was helpful in the treatment of diabetes. In Ayurveda, one type of kupena is considered an aphrodisiac and is also used to treat pain, fever, inflammation, allergies, and weakness.

Kupene found even greater use in cooking:

• In China and Korea, the leaves, stems and rhizomes are used raw or cooked and served as a side dish with meat or as an accompaniment to rice. The rhizomes are used to make tea and flavor alcoholic beverages. Roots fried with sugar and honey serve as a dessert.
• In India, kupena is considered a vegetable, and its leaves and young shoots are eaten. Raw sprouts taste like asparagus.
• Native Americans ground the root of the plant and added it to flour or ate it boiled. Due to its high starch content, kupena root is a bit like a potato.

[!] All parts of the plant, including fruits, are poisonous. Eating them uncontrollably and raw is prohibited, and treatment must be carried out under the supervision of a physician.

It is difficult to name the homeland of the purchased now - the culture has spread throughout the world and is found on almost all continents. Most often, the plant can be seen in Europe and most of Asia, as well as in both Americas. In Russia, the kupena settled in Siberia, the Far East, the European part and the Caucasus.

Botany classifies the genus Kupena (lat. Polygonatum) to the extensive asparagus family (lat. Asparagaceae), subfamily noline (lat. Nolinoideae). The closest relatives were bought in the plant world - aspidistra, lily of the valley, nolina, needle and, widely known in indoor floriculture, sansevieria. Previously, the genus was assigned to the abolished family of lilies of the valley and lilies.

The genus includes several species of herbaceous perennials, united by common features: a long horizontal rhizome with traces of dead stems similar to seals, dense erect or drooping shoots, glossy ovate or oval-elliptical leaves and flowers appearing in the axils of the leaves. Flowers can be solitary or collected in loose inflorescences, and their color, as a rule, is snow-white. After flowering, fruits appear in the form of red or blue-black berries containing several seeds.

One of the features of the kupena is the presence of rhizomes, horizontal root-like creeping shoots that serve for the asexual reproduction of the perennial. The development cycle of the rhizome differs in duration:

1. At first, the stem grows underground in a horizontal position. At its end, an apical bud is formed.
2. About six months later, by the middle of summer, the bud turns vertically, but does not germinate.
3. In the spring of the following year, a bud appears on the surface of the earth and a young shoot grows from it. At the same time, a new shoot with an apical bud is formed underground, repeating the entire path.
4. In autumn, the above-ground part of the kupena dies off, but the underground part remains, providing a new cycle of development for the next year.

Types and varieties bought

According to the latest data, the genus includes at least 75 species, some of which are used in ornamental gardening.

Kupena two-flowered(lat. Polygonatum biflorum) is sometimes called smooth or magnificent and is confused with the bony smilacine, which is similar in appearance. Most often this species is found in the forests of North America.

The plant is characterized by strong, slightly sloping stems of medium height (about 30-40 cm). In the upper part of the shoot there are large glossy oval leaves with a sharp end. In late spring or early summer, flower stalks appear from the axils of the leaves with one or more often two white bell-shaped flowers.

Kupena multiflora(lat. Polygonatum multiflorum), unlike the previous species, is found mainly in the forests of Eurasia. The flower was especially widespread in Great Britain, the countries of northern and central Europe, Russia and Belarus.

This is a rather large (average 50 cm, maximum size 90 cm) culture with slightly drooping leafless stems in the lower part, large elliptical leaves bright green above and grayish below and white inflorescences. Inflorescences appear in late spring and consist of several flowers, for which the species got its name.

K. two-flowered, K. many-flowered

Kupena fragrant, fragrant, pharmacy or medicinal (lat. Polygonatum odoratum) is found in many regions and countries: Great Britain, Russia, Japan, China, etc. This is a tall (up to 85 cm) herbaceous perennial with large alternately arranged leaves and inflorescences collected from 1-3 bell-shaped flowers. The color of the flowers is slightly different - the tips of the petals have a delicate greenish tint.

There are several varieties of fragrant kupena:

1. Maksimovich (var. maximowiczii) - Japan, Far East.
2. Fragrant (var. odoratum) - Portugal. Great Britain, Japan, Kamchatka.
3. Multiflowered (var. pluriflorum) - Japan, Korea.
4. Thunberg (var. thunbergii) - Japan, Korea.

This type is most often used in traditional medicine.

Koupen Hooker(lat. Polygonatum hookeri) differs from others in a very beautiful pale lilac shade of flowers that appear in spring, elongated linear leaves and miniature sizes. This plant can be seen in the mountains and foothills, in rocky alpine meadows. Bright flowering curtains look extraordinarily decorative against the backdrop of lush greenery.

Kupena low or squat (lat. Polygonatum humile) is another representative of compact species. It is found mainly in Siberia, the Far East, as well as in China and Japan.

This is a low (up to 30 cm) herbaceous perennial with erect or slightly sloping stems, along the entire length of which there are large, rounded and glossy leaves. In late spring or early summer, a peduncle appears from the bases of the middle and lower leaves with a single snow-white flower at the end.

K. fragrant, K. low

Whorled kupena(lat. Polygonatum verticillatum) - a medium-high (about 45 cm) plant with a strong straight stem and elongated, pointed at the ends, bright green leaves. Flowering time is the beginning or middle of summer. After flowering, fruits are formed in the form of berries of a rich red hue, which contrast beautifully with the greenery of leaves and shoots.

Kupena hairy or pubescent (lat. Polygonatum hirtum) - a perennial, reaching 50 cm in height, with drooping, pubescent stems in the upper part. The leaves are oval, large. In May, flowers appear from the leaf axils.

Often found in the temperate zone of Eurasia, preferring to settle in sparse forests, forest-steppes, mountains and foothills. The species is unpretentious and drought-resistant, which makes it indispensable for cultivation in areas with depleted soil.

K. whorled, K. hairy

Kupena hybrid(lat. Polygonatum × hybridum) is an artificially bred plant, the most popular in ornamental gardening. The hybrid is the result of crossing a multi-flowered and fragrant kupene. It is characterized by excellent hardiness, rapid growth, resistance to drought and other adverse effects.

This is a large (up to 90 cm) perennial with thickened drooping stems and elliptical leaves alternately located on them. Flowers - white or greenish, on thin long peduncles, pleasantly smelling.

Numerous varieties are known:

• "Striatum" (Striatum) - variegated (variegated) variety. The leaves of the plant are decorated with green and cream stripes. It is distinguished by more compact (no more than 60 cm) dimensions.
• "Betberg" (Betberg) - the variety is named after the German village. Interesting dark brown, brown or purple leaves. Unlike the previous one, it is larger than standard hybrids and can reach a height of more than a meter.
• "Wakehurst" (Wakehurst) - pale pink bell-shaped flowers, elongated leaves and burgundy shoots.
• "Purple Katie" (Purple Katie) - the leaves and stems of this variety have an unusual purple hue.
• "Nanum" (Nanum) - undersized variety.
• "Variegatum" (Viriegatum) - a group of varieties with a pattern on the leaf plate. The pattern, as a rule, is an alternation of light green and dark green stripes.
• "Flore Pleno" (Flore Pleno) - large flowers with a white base and a greenish end of the petals.

K. "Wakehurst", K. "Betberg", K. "Striatum", K. "Flore Pleno"

Bought in landscape design

Kupena looks very impressive in a flower bed, and a variety of species allows you to choose a plant that is suitable in size.

Tall and medium tall species look great with hostas, astilbes, (a classic combination), compacts and ferns. Miniature varieties are good in rocky gardens next to lily of the valley, and kandyk.

This culture is great for shaded areas of the garden. Its graceful snow-white flowers stand out brightly against the dark green, and the foliage remains decorative throughout the season. Kupena looks great in landscape compositions created in a romantic or natural style.

Undoubted plus bought - fast growth. Bought by a shoot, it grows over the course of several years, but showing, however, aggression towards other cultures and not occupying extra space. Varietal kupeny give a slightly smaller increase. Another advantage of the plant is stability and long life: the curtain can not be transplanted for 10-15 years.

Among the shortcomings, one can note the exposure of the lower part of the shoots, which many gardeners do not like. To hide unattractive stems, low-growing and dense plants can be planted from below.

Growing bought and caring for it

In nature, kupena grows in deciduous and pine forests, among shrubs, along river banks, along streams, where there is fertile soil, high humidity, but little sun. For the rapid growth of the forest beauty in the garden, first of all, it is necessary to plant it in the right place in fertile soil, and then actively water the plant.

Location, soil, watering, wintering

The best place for kupena is shade or partial shade, under the canopy of large trees. In the sun, this perennial, of course, will survive, but it will be very bad to grow and bloom.

Another important factor in the successful cultivation of kupena is rich humus soil. It should be loose, water and breathable. Before planting, a little humus should be added to the substrate, and it is advisable to dilute too dense clay soil with clean coarse sand.

[!] Kupena does not react well to stagnant water at the roots, especially during spring floods, so you should not plant the plant in the lowlands.

Watering is vital in drought; on rainy days, watering can be stopped, natural moisture will be enough.

The vast majority of perennial species tolerate frost well. Moreover, kupena grows well even in Siberia, perfectly preserved in winter. In late autumn, the entire green aerial part of the plant dies off, only the roots remain, from which new young shoots appear the next year.

Reproduction bought

In nature, kupena reproduces by rhizomes and seeds; in culture, the first option is preferable. The fact is that perennial seeds quickly lose their germination capacity, and also require prolonged stratification, which is not always convenient.

For propagation, a segment of the rhizome with an apical bud should be separated and planted again. The rhizome is planted horizontally, as they grow in nature, to a depth of 5-7 cm, and the best time for this procedure is the end of summer or the beginning of autumn.

Diseases and pests

The beautifully flowering kupena is resistant to many diseases and pests. Among the most dangerous infections for her are

In recent decades, special attention has been paid to the planning of the flower bed and flower garden, as well as the garden. Importance is attached to the harmonious combination of different types of plants that make up for the shortcomings of neighbors and at the same time emphasize their advantages. No area should be left unattended.

The basis of a bright flower bed, pleasing to the eye, is always made up of flowers that love the sun, but what to do with shaded places in which southern beauties will not open their buds, they will die?

And here a dim, but remarkable in its beauty, garden bath will come to the rescue, somewhat reminiscent of a large, but elegant lily of the valley. With its discreet simplicity, this flower will decorate shady places in which it is difficult for exotic flowers of the south to adapt.

plant description

Kupena (polygonatu ) - a plant belonging to the genus lily of the valley, the asparagus family, the lily family.

This flower has a graceful ribbed stem adorned with bright green oval or lanceolate leaves with vertical veins.

Blooms in late spring - early summer. The flowering period lasts approximately 4 weeks.

The flowers were bought small, in the form of a bell, white and cream in color, slightly greenish towards the end of the petals. The aroma of flowers is pleasant. At the end of summer, round fruits ripen in the form of dark blue poisonous berries. The number of seeds in them varies from 2 to 9.

Distributed in mountainous areas, temperate and subtropical climates. Less common in tropical European zones, America and Asia.

It is common and cultivated as an ornamental (multiflorous kupena) and medicinal (medicinal kupena) plant.

This plant has other names: garden lily of the valley, Solomon's seal, crow berries, bloodthirst .

There are several dozen subspecies of this plant, and each variety is characterized by a feature of the color and shape of the inflorescences, the size of the bush, and the height of the stems. Gardeners mainly cultivate two types of this flower: multi-flowered and medicinal.

This is a moisture-loving shade-resistant plant that tolerates winter frosts well.

The kupena is characterized by the following signs:

• the shape of the flowers is similar to a large lily of the valley;
• straight, and in some species climbing, stem;
• thickened horizontal rhizome with characteristic nodes;
• on the root after the autumn death of the stem, a round depressed mark is noticeable, by which the age of the kupena is determined - this is the sign that gave the plant the name "Solomon's seal".

Kupena in your garden: the benefits

The advantages of this perennial for the gardener and amateur grower are the unpretentiousness of the plant, the possibility of planting it in shady places, dense gardens:

• it perfectly hides the empty places of the flower garden unsuitable for other flowers;
• it is often planted as a decoration for near-trunk circles;
• kupena perfectly complements undersized plants in a flower bed;
• even after flowering, the garden lily of the valley will be a wonderful element of garden design - a backdrop for irises, lilies and other flowering plants;
• The plant reproduces by dividing the rhizomes, therefore it is unpretentious in care, it grows rapidly, thereby crowding out weeds.

Planting and care in the open field

Choice of landing site

When planning the landscape of the site, do not forget the advice of experienced flower growers: they are advised to plant the kupen closer to hedges, shrubs - growing, tall flower stems sometimes lose their attractiveness, become bare. In one place, the flower grows from 12 to 15 years.

The flower is best planted in a place where there will be no direct sunlight.

The soil

The soil should be fertile, moderately moist, fertilized with mineral fertilizers, ash.

It should be noted: the close occurrence of groundwater adversely affects plants.

The site intended for planting the plant must be prepared in advance: the soil should be treated from weeds and their seeds, dug to a depth of 25-30 cm.

Landing in the ground

It is more expedient to plant a multi-flowered tree in open ground at the end of summer or early spring, before the first frosts have yet come.

Kupena is planted in pre-prepared planting pits: a little sand mixed with rubble is laid on the bottom, and the drainage is covered with a layer of soil mixed with compost from above.

The distance from one flower to another should not be less than 20 cm - 25-30 cm will be optimal.

reproduction

Usually garden lily of the valley is propagated by dividing the rhizome and much less often by seeds. Seeds bought quickly lose their germination, and after planting, a sprout from a seed when planted in the ground in autumn can only be seen in spring. The plant will bloom only 4 years after the appearance of the sprout. As a result, kupena is mainly bred by dividing the cranked rhizome, which is dug up and divided for planting material in late August - September. When cutting the rhizome, it should be noted that each plot should have a growth point.

Note: two types of buds are located on the root - flower (round, large) and growth point, growth (small, with a sharp tip). Plots with a flower bud and a growth bud are recommended to be planted in different places. Floral next season will delight you with flowers. Rostovye should be grown a little - they will bloom a little later.

A part of the root with a bud or stem is laid horizontally on the bottom of the planting hole to a depth of 10 cm. The earth is covered from above, compacting it.

A plant planted in this way must be watered abundantly.

Already in the new season, the kupena will delight you with friendly sprouts.

Kupena takes root for about a year or two, after which it begins to develop intensively, which should be taken into account so that this close relative of the lily of the valley does not “survive” other plants from the site.

Care

In order for the "Solomon seal" to please your eye, you should take care of the proper care of this modest beauty.

Interaction with other plants

Kupena grows well in the vicinity of similar shade-loving plants, so it is usually planted next to the "broken heart" (dicentra), hellebore, ferns.

More undersized "neighbors" should be planted nearby, but not close to the shoots of this lily of the valley, because the kupena can shade them, and this will affect the growth of these plants, provoke their illness and death.

medicinal properties

The legend says that the wisest King Solomon himself appreciated the amazing properties of this flower. Traditional medicine bought medicinal known as hemostatic And anti-inflammatory tool used in osteochondrosis, gout.

Decoctions were famous for their medicinal effect in stomach ulcer And respiratory diseases.

The juice of the stems and leaves is effective for purulent rashes on the skin, eczema.

The fruits of this medicinal herb are used in medicine as an emetic.

This plant contains many useful substances, but at the same time, the rhizomes and fruits are poisonous and can be harmful to health if the dosage is incorrect.

When it comes to flowers, it is very difficult, and sometimes almost impossible, to describe them without special botanical terms so that the interlocutor understands which flower is meant. It's easier to show a photo. However, not in the case of the purchased. It is enough to ask the interlocutor to imagine a large lily of the valley. Indeed, kupena comes from the same family and is a typical forest flower, with all the features of planting, care, outdoor cultivation and reproduction that are characteristic of them.

Description of kupena: varieties and varieties

Kupena multicolor refers to plants of the lily family. Kupena is the owner of a graceful curved stem, on which bright oval green leaves are arranged in two even rows, and medium-sized white flowers bloom in their axils.

In nature, there are about 50 species of kupena. Most often you can find 3 of them.

Medicinal purchase. It grows among the forests and in the shady bushes of the northern hemisphere. Does not exceed half a meter in height, blooms in late spring - early summer. The fruits of medicinal kupena have a strong emetic effect.

Fragrant kupena. It grows up to 80 cm in height, has bluish-green leaves. Fragrant kupena blooms in mid-May and blooms for 5 weeks. This flower chooses the slopes of low mountains and hills, shady thickets of the forest and forest clearings as a habitat in nature.

Bought multicolored. This variety is most often planted in flower pots and in open ground. Color multi-flowered bought in early summer.

The rhizome is interesting in its structure. It consists of links, and when last year's shoot dies, a small area covered with cork cloth remains in its place. With its appearance, it resembles a seal, which gave the compartment the second name "Solomon's seal". According to legend, King Solomon awarded this flower with his seal for its healing properties. After all, infusions from the root of kupena are known for their anti-inflammatory and wound-healing effects.

Attention. All parts are bought poisonous.

Landing kupena

You can plant kupena on any soil, as it is absolutely not demanding. But if you want the plant to look perfect, then it is best to transfer the cultivation to the shade, to fertile, dense soil. In the sun, Kupena will grow a little worse and look less impressive. When planting in open ground, it is desirable that groundwater comes close to the surface. Watering is needed regularly, but the plant does not tolerate stagnant moisture well. Kupena feels best in the shade of trees, forming lush thickets in which even weeds do not survive.

Before planting, they are bought in open ground, the beds are first prepared. Drainage from crushed stone or sand is poured into the prepared hole, and compost is added to the soil.

Growing kupena from seeds in garden floriculture is practically never found, because pollination of this flower can only occur with the help of long-proboscis bumblebees. Seeds are planted in late autumn, and sprouts appear in spring, and sometimes even only in the 2nd year. In addition, a plant planted with seeds may lose maternal characteristics. Such plants begin to bloom only in the 3rd year, and sometimes even in the 5th.

Purchased care

"Solomon's Seal" is just a godsend for a garden that has no time to take care of.

Growing bought is good because this plant practically does not require care. It is necessary to water the flowers only in dry times, in other periods it will be enough for rain watering and groundwater. After watering, in order to avoid the formation of a crust, plant bushes are mulched. Flower growers are advised to avoid loosening, because the rhizomes are brittle and are not located too deep, because they can be damaged. Weeds pull through only the first two years, then the kupena grows so that the weeds have no chance of survival. For the winter, the kupena does not need to be covered or dug up - it winters well in the open field, and in the spring it will bloom with renewed vigor.

Fertilizer and top dressing

If you planted a kupen in fertile soil, then fertilizing once a year is enough for good development. To this end, organic matter (manure or compost) and some mineral fertilizers are poured into the soil in the spring. This will be enough for the development and flowering of the kupena.

Plant propagation

The simplest and most effective way to propagate kupena is division.

The flower can be planted in open ground at any time of the year, but it is best to do this in late summer or early autumn. The landing site must be cleared of weeds, dug 25-20 cm deep. The root of the kupene is cranked and very fragile, so it is very easy to divide it. Delenki with a bud or stem are planted in the soil to a depth of 8-9 cm. They are placed horizontally.

For the first couple of years, the growth of the flower will occur slowly, until the root finally takes root, then the kupena will begin to grow rapidly. It is recommended to divide the kupena every 3-4 years, planting delenki in the same place, otherwise the kupena can crush its neighbors in the garden.

Diseases and pests

Kupena, planting and caring for which do not bring any trouble, is just as pleased with the almost complete absence of disease. Pests also bypass this flower, only sometimes in dry times or in the second half of summer, slugs and some caterpillars can be found on its leaves. But this problem is easily solved with the help of Intavir or any other analogues.

Kupena: combination with other plants

Kupena perfectly coexists with other plants that prefer shade and partial shade. She is friends with various types of ferns, hellebore, dicentra.

Advice. If you do not keep the kupena under control, dividing the rhizome every few years, over time it can grow too actively, and will oppress, and even crowd out its neighbors in the flower garden.

Bought in landscape design

Perennial dense ornamental thickets that form kupena make it a welcome guest in any garden or flower garden. It will perfectly hide the empty unsightly areas of the garden, making them a secluded cozy corner. It is also well bought in the shade of trees, therefore it is often used for landscaping near-stem circles of garden trees. In a rocky garden or rockery, a squat bush will come in handy. Multicolor kupen is often used as a vertical accent among low-growing plants (for example, daisies or pansies, asters).

In landscape design, kupena differs from many flowers in that even after it fades, its gracefully curved leaves support the composition in a new color.

An excellent background will serve as a cup for irises and daylilies, and in plantings with tulips it will hide the withering of spring bulbs.

Many gardeners advise planting kupena along a hedge of shrubs. When the bushes mature, their lower stems become bare and lose their attractiveness. Tall shoots bought will perfectly hide this shortcoming, growing well in the shade of shrubs.

Kupena, in addition to all its beauty, also has a lot of useful properties. A decoction of kupena is widely used in the treatment of gastritis and pneumonia, as well as a hemostatic. As an external remedy, kupena is often used for bruises, bruises and rheumatic pains. However, remember that you can not use kupena for medicinal purposes without the recommendation of a doctor. Improper use can lead to poisoning or burns, because kupena is a poisonous plant.

Advice. If there are children on your site, then it is better to plant the bath in the area in which access for children is minimal. Because poisonous berries are bought, they look very attractive.

If you want to diversify your landscape, but you do not have time to care for capricious plants, then the purchased is just what you need. Whichever variety of these flowers you choose, it will harmoniously fit into any flower garden. In addition, breeding kupena will not cause any trouble. And thanks to the amazing ability of kupena to blend with many plants in the garden, you will always have a great backdrop for a photo. It all depends on your imagination, inspiration and desire to make your own unique and inimitable.

Purchased properties: video

Kupena multiflora: photo

Kupena from the lily family has a graceful curved stem, and bright green leaves and white flowers flaunt on it. The main advantage of a perennial is its shade tolerance and unpretentiousness in care. This is a great addition to any garden, and with 50 known varieties, you can choose exactly your kupen.

The most popular species are medicinal, fragrant, undersized, whorled and broad-leaved. To grow a spectacular kupen flower in your backyard, it is enough to adhere to the timing of its planting and provide it with proper care.

Location selection

Garden lily of the valley, also called kupena, quietly grows and develops in almost any conditions. However, it is better to plant it in shaded areas. The soil must be sufficiently fertile. If you define a perennial plant on depleted soil or under the open sun, then the kupena will grow much worse and will not be able to become a beautiful addition to the garden.

Advice
Garden lily of the valley will help get rid of weeds under the trees: kupena forms dense thickets, leaving no chance for green freeloaders.

Planting technology and reproduction

It is believed that garden lily of the valley can be planted in open ground at any time of the year. But it is preferable to do this in the last days of August, before autumn. Site preparation includes the following steps:

1. Clearing a specific area from weeds.
2. Digging the soil to a depth of 20-25 cm.
3. Hole formation.
4. Laying at the bottom of the pits of the drainage layer of brick battle, fine gravel, coarse sand.
5. Top dressing with mineral fertilizers at the rate of 15 g per plant or wood ash. To do this, the excavated earth is mixed with nutrients, including compost.

Further actions will depend on the chosen method of reproduction. At the same time, seed and vegetative methods are equally successfully used. As a rule, the first one is taken into service in order to plant new bushes. To propagate an existing kupena, it is divided.

Vegetative method

The easiest way to breed kupena is to separate part of the rhizome with a kidney from an adult bush. This method makes the garden lily of the valley grow and develop faster.

Procedure:

1. In the prepared planting holes, divisions are placed to a depth of no more than 10 cm and placed horizontally.
2. Sprinkle with fertile soil and gently tamp.
3. Abundantly watered.

Use this breeding option bought in the country is allowed at any time of the year. The period for which the bush will fully take root and take root is two years. The first buds of a multi-flowered plant will be tied in the third year after planting.

seed method

A significant disadvantage of this method of reproduction is the long waiting time for the first buds, it happens that they appear 5 years after the seeds are planted in the soil. In addition, it is difficult to collect material: because of the narrow inflorescences, the kupena is poorly pollinated and does not bear fruit every year. Finally, the qualities of hybrid flowers are not preserved when settling by seeds.

If the seed method is nevertheless chosen, then the planting material will require natural stratification. Manipulate before winter. Given the long period of their development, they will be able to hatch only next year in the spring.

When growing for seedlings, you must:

1. Collect fully ripe fruits.
2. Remove the seeds from them and rinse under water from the pulp.
3. Prepare containers, containers filled with sand and peat mixture.
4. Bury the seeds in the soil and cover with foil.

Important
Kupena is poisonous - children need to be explained that picking these flowers is dangerous.

During the first three months, the temperature in the room should be within + 2-5 ° C. The next three months, the crops are kept at a temperature of 20-23 degrees Celsius. For the last three months, the containers should again be kept in a cool room at a temperature not higher than +5. Lighting should be diffused, and the soil should be moderately moist. Irrigation is carried out as the land dries up.

Perennial Care Secrets

Kupena is an unpretentious plant, but the basic agrotechnical requirements should be observed so that the flower pleases with its delicate flowers for a long time.

Watering and mulching

The amount and frequency of irrigation depends on the particular plant variety. Kupena needs regular, but moderate watering, which will not provoke rotting of the root system, the development of fungal diseases, the invasion of snails, slugs. Broad-leaved, pink and medicinal varieties of this flower grow well even in dry weather. Watering is done only with a long absence of precipitation.

Given the fragility of the perennial root system, loosening the soil is not advisable, there is a high probability of damage to it. The best way to conserve moisture is to mulch with pine sawdust and grass clippings.

Weed removal and top dressing

It is necessary to clean the flower garden from weeds when growing kupena only in the first two to three years after planting.

Even when planting a perennial in an open area, nutrients are added to the wells, and that supply is enough for 2 years. Subsequently, the bushes are recommended to be fertilized once a year - in the spring, using organic compounds.

Diseases, pests, wintering

The advantage is bought in its excellent resistance to various diseases and garden pests. The main thing is to prevent waterlogging of the soil, and then there will be no problems with the plant.

As soon as the cold sets in, the aerial part of the garden lily of the valley dies. The roots of the plant are not affected. But this only applies to temperate climates. In northern regions with severe frosts, bushes without shelter will die. For protection, it is better to use sawdust, peat or spruce branches.

Kupena is rightfully considered hardy and does not require special growing conditions. When performing basic agricultural practices, the florist receives an elegant decoration for his garden.

Almost all decorative summer plants are natives of the distant tropics, which means that they are given the warmest, sunniest places in the flower bed. However, in every garden there is a secluded corner where life-giving rays rarely penetrate. A natural question arises: what to plant on such a site? When choosing plants for a shady flower garden, be sure to pay attention to the charming representative of the Asparagus family - kupena. In nature, this modest unpretentious plant lives in birch and coniferous forests of the temperate zone, which means it will not suffer from a lack of light. At the first glance at the kupena, you can easily guess in it the closest relative of the lily of the valley: the same beautiful leathery leaves and delicate bell-shaped flowers of white or greenish color.

The people call the forest enchantress in different ways - wolf grass, magpie eyes, bloodthirst, hernia, pure tears, deaf lily of the valley, Solomon's seal. The last name is associated with a legend according to which the ancient Jewish king Solomon marked the healing herb with a magic ring. In the confrontation with the sworn enemy Asmodeus, the biblical ruler lost his wonderful amulet, and the memorable trace on the rhizomes of the kupena remained forever. The beneficial properties of the plant were appreciated not only by the legendary hero. Despite the fact that kupena is extremely poisonous, many ailments have been treated with it for many centuries. Healing decoctions are prepared from the rhizomes to treat diseases of the respiratory and digestive systems, hemorrhoids and sciatica, and fresh leaf juice is used to treat wounds and dermatitis.

It remains to add only that the kupena is undemanding in care and with its help you can easily turn an abandoned corner of the garden into a lovely forest clearing.

When to plant

Theoretically, kupena can be grown from seeds, but this process is too long and laborious, besides, the germination of the material and the viability of the seedlings leave much to be desired. It is much easier to purchase a grown strong seedling for the initial planting, and subsequently propagate the plant yourself by dividing the rhizome.

As for the timing, the best time for planting bought is September. Bushes planted in spring will also take root, but will take longer to adapt to new conditions and most likely will not bloom this season.

Landing Rules

As mentioned above, kupena should be planted in the shade or partial shade. In the sun, it will also grow, but the bushes accustomed to coolness in the open will look oppressed and pale. The forest guest prefers soil that is well fertilized, neutral or slightly acidic. The site for autumn planting is recommended to be prepared in the spring.

When digging grooves, be guided by the size of the root system of the seedling: the rhizome will need to be laid horizontally, and the sprouts will be buried 2–3 cm into the ground. Plantings are watered only if the soil in the area is too dry.

From the second year of life, the kupena begins to grow actively, "winning" space for itself from neighboring plants. Dig up sheets of old slate along the perimeter of the site, and destroy or replant those bushes that still manage to get beyond the boundaries of the territory allotted to them. If you allow the kupen to grow spontaneously, then in the near future it will "host" even in vegetable beds.

Basic care

Like any forest plant, kupena is quite capable of growing and blooming without care, but if you give it a little attention, the bushes will be more lush, and flowering will be plentiful and long. Landing care activities are simple:

• In the heat, water the bushes abundantly and often. The soil on the site should always be slightly moist. Don't get carried away! If, as a result of your efforts, the clearing turns into a swamp, then the roots of the kupena will rot.
• The culture responds very gratefully to the introduction of organic matter - rotted mullein or mature garden compost. Top dressing is carried out in early spring or late autumn.
• It is recommended to periodically loosen the soil under the kupena and weed it in a timely manner, since it is the wildly growing weeds that most often cause the development of fungal infections.

In addition to seasonal procedures, the bushes must be rejuvenated by division every 5–6 years. Due to the poisonousness of the plant, seat the kupen only with gloves and be sure to wash your hands with soap and water at the end of work.

Diseases and pests

By nature, kupene has been given good health, but under adverse conditions it can become infected with gray vegetable rot. Plantings will have to be saved with the help of fungicides ("Fundazol", "Maxim", "Tattu").

Of the pests, bushes growing in the shade are attacked by slugs and caterpillars-leaf-eaters, against which the Intavir and Thunderstorm preparations are effective, and in order to discourage gastropods from climbing into the flower garden, sprinkle the soil under the plants with ground hot pepper or dry mustard. The worst thing that can happen to a kupen is a nematode defeat. There is no escape from this pest, so damaged bushes should be immediately removed from the site and burned.

Bought in autumn

At the end of the season, the aerial part of the kupena dies off, and the rhizomes remain to winter in the ground. The indigenous inhabitant is resistant to cold weather, but in anticipation of a harsh and snowy winter, it will not be superfluous to insure and mulch the area with a pile of fallen leaves. In the spring, when the snow melts, rake the old foliage and wait for the young greenery to appear. Do not leave the shelter for a long time, otherwise the shoots will rot.

Popular types

The genus Kupene in nature is represented by more than 50 species, of which about 10 are grown in culture. Conventionally, they are usually divided into 2 groups. The first includes forms with dense broad leaves and arched shoots, such as:

• Kupena fragrant (medicinal, pharmacy) is a plant 40–100 cm high, widespread in the middle latitudes, with a straight faceted, slightly curved in the upper part, stem and large, rigidly pubescent leaves. White-green tubular flowers, exuding a delicious aroma of bitter almonds, bloom in early summer, and after 2-4 weeks, fruits ripen in their place - blue-black berries. In floriculture, variegated forms are in demand fragrant, the leaves of which are decorated with white veins and a light border.
• Kupena multiflora is another popular representative of the genus. A plant 30–80 cm high with oblong-lanceolate bare leaves. Large (up to 2 cm in length) odorless greenish flowers, collected in clusters of 2–5 pieces, bloom in May and adorn the garden for 30–40 days. Garden variegated forms of the species, as well as cultivars with pinkish flowers, have proven themselves well.
• Broad-leaved kupena is the most drought-resistant variety of garden kupena. A fast-growing, long-rhizome plant that forms dense clumps up to 50 cm high. Fragrant white flowers delight the eye from late May to mid-June.
• Kupena squat (low) - an ideal view for decorating rockeries. Slow-growing bushes 15-30 cm high with large white-green flowers form nice compact "islands".

The second group is represented by erect types of kupena with narrow lanceolate leaves:

• Kupena pink - a species quite rare in culture with graceful mauve flowers and bright red berries. The stems of the plant are 40–60 cm high and have an unusual reddish hue. Kupena blooms pink in May-June.
• Whorled kupena is a native inhabitant of the Caucasus. Medium-sized (30–80 cm) plant with tubular white flowers and red fruits. Stems are faceted, strong. Lanceolate leaves reach a length of 15 cm. In horticultural cultivation, the whorled form with red shoots is in demand.

Sometimes, in a variety of sources, there is a description of a burning kupen, which, in fact, has nothing to do with kupen. This is the name of the ash tree - a plant of the Rutovye family, which has the ability to light up with a colorless fire in extreme heat. There is an explanation for this strange phenomenon: the ash tree emits flammable essential oils, which, evaporating under the rays of the sun, flare up. It is extremely rare to find a burning kupena, but this is perhaps for the best, since it is extremely dangerous for human health. Esters of the plant are not only combustible, but also toxic. From light contact with an amazing stranger, deep chemical burns remain on the skin, which will be extremely difficult to cure.

In the landscape, garden baths are recommended to be combined with the same unpretentious and shade-tolerant plants as she herself: hosts, ferns, hellebore, dicentra, irises, woodruff. The flowers of the modest inhabitant of the forests look great in bouquets and stand for a long time in the cut.

But! Do not forget that the bought ones are poisonous, so before planting, explain to the younger family members that you should never touch the plant, and even more so, taste the beautiful berries and leaves.