White chrysanthemum is a common herbaceous plant, and its flowers are often seen blooming in autumn. However, besides white chrysanthemums, there are many other flowers that look very similar, such as the Maicai we are introducing today. In this article, we will explore the sister flower of the white chrysanthemum—Maicai, and learn about its characteristics and growing environment.
What is Maicai?
Maicai is a common herbaceous plant, belonging to the Asteraceae family, and looks very similar to white chrysanthemum.
Appearance Characteristics of Maicai
The flowers of Maicai are almost identical to those of white chrysanthemum, both having white or light yellow petals and yellow centers. The difference is that Maicai flowers are slightly smaller than white chrysanthemums, and their leaves are also wider and flatter.
Growing Environment of Maicai
Maicai prefers to grow in warm and humid environments, often found on hillslopes, ditches, and roadsides. Due to their strong adaptability to climate, they are found all over the country.
Flowering Season of Maicai
Maicai generally blooms from late summer to early autumn, and the flowering period usually lasts for several weeks.
Medicinal Value of Maicai
Maicai is believed to have the effects of clearing heat and detoxifying, reducing swelling and alleviating pain, and can be used to treat colds, fever, gastroenteritis, and other diseases.
How to Distinguish White Chrysanthemum from Maicai
Although white chrysanthemum and Maicai look very similar, they also have differences. Besides the size of the flowers and the shape of the leaves, they can also be distinguished by their stems, leaves, and inflorescences.
Flowers with Similar Appearance to Maicai
In addition to white chrysanthemum and Maicai, there are other flowers that look very similar to them, such as chrysanthemum, Belamcanda chinensis, and water chrysanthemum.
Ecological Environment of Maicai
The ecological environment of Maicai is diverse, including hillsides, roadsides, fields, forests, and more.
Cultivation Methods for Maicai
If you want to grow Maicai at home, you need to choose a sunny, warm, and humid environment, and fertilize and water it in a timely manner.
Flower Language of Maicai
The flower language of Maicai is "brief happiness," which implies that people should cherish the happiness in front of them and not always pursue excessive wealth and power.
Medicinal Value of Maicai's Leaves and Stems
The leaves and stems of Maicai also have medicinal value and can be used to treat stomachaches, urinary tract infections, and other diseases.
Application of Maicai in Horticulture
Due to its beautiful appearance, Maicai is also widely used in horticulture. It can be used as an ornamental plant for flower bed edges, or it can be planted in combination with other flowers.
Differences Between White Chrysanthemum and Maicai
Although white chrysanthemum and Maicai look very similar, they differ in leaf shape, inflorescence, and medicinal value.
Harvesting and Preservation Methods for Maicai
If you want to harvest Maicai to make medicine or for consumption, you need to pay attention to the appropriate time and methods, and avoid direct sunlight and moisture during storage.
As a relative of the white chrysanthemum, Maicai shares many similar characteristics, but there are also some differences. Understanding the characteristics and medicinal value of Maicai can help us better appreciate this beautiful plant.