Nodding Figwort
scrophularia nodosa
Also known as: ["Woodland Figwort","Kingswood"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its medicinal properties and distinctive flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Scrophularia |
| Botanical Name: | Scrophularia nodosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter; well-draining.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct morning sun or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; provide dappled shade in hot afternoons; protect from harsh winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or root division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain moisture.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or a healthy lateral bud; thin out crowded growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to improve air circulation and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
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 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; apply a thick mulch layer; protect from drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stagnate in prolonged heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicScrophularia nodosa is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant's compounds can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicScrophularia nodosa can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The plant contains compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal irritation in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScrophularia nodosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its roots or leaves may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of iridoid glycosides.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scrophularia nodosa toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Nodding Figwort?
A: It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
Q: Does Scrophularia nodosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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