Wall pellitory
parietaria officinalis
Also known as: ["Pellitory-of-the-wall","Lichwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with creeping stems and small green flowers, commonly found growing on walls and rocky areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Parietaria |
| Botanical Name: | Parietaria officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, dry walls, or containers in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade but may stretch in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered sunlight if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; refresh soil annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer), none required in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Maintain moisture and warmth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional changes.
Hormone
Optional, but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or orchid bark to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Parietaria officinalis. The plant's irritant compounds are not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Parietaria officinalis by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal irritation due to the presence of low levels of irritant compounds. The pollen is generally not a concern unless inhaled in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicParietaria officinalis, commonly known as pellitory-of-the-wall, is primarily known for its allergenic pollen, which can trigger respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. The plant itself contains small amounts of irritant compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched or ingested
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Wall pellitory suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: No, it is best suited for outdoor environments, particularly in rock gardens or wall crevices.
Q: Does Wall pellitory cause allergic reactions?
A: Yes, it is known to be highly allergenic, particularly for individuals with hay fever.
Q: Is Wall pellitory toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested, but generally not life-threatening in small quantities.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
