Pineapple weed
matricaria discoidea
Also known as: ["Wild chamomile","Wild maythen","Matschiner Kamille"]
Overview
A small, aromatic annual plant in the daisy family, characterized by conical, fragrant flower heads without ray florets.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Matricaria |
| Botanical Name: | Matricaria discoidea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: wildflower garden, meadow, or naturalized area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when plant becomes leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for shape or health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormancy
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid overwatering; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then monthly during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to prevent burning; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown directly.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plant can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; deadhead spent flowers regularly.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water until soil is moist but not waterlogged; ensure excess water drains away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings; increase frequency during hot, dry periods but avoid overwatering.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid planting in late fall or early spring in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; flowering may be reduced in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; water before fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize lightly every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMatricaria discoidea is not considered toxic to cats. The plant is generally safe for accidental ingestion in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicMatricaria discoidea is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is generally safe for accidental ingestion in small amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Slightly ToxicMatricaria discoidea, commonly known as pineapple weed, is generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild gastrointestinal upset if consumed in large amounts. The plant contains volatile oils that may irritate the digestive tract in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pineapple weed edible?
A: Yes, the flowers and leaves are edible and can be used in teas or as a flavoring.
Q: Does Pineapple weed have any medicinal uses?
A: It has been used traditionally for digestive issues and as a mild sedative.
Q: How does Pineapple weed grow?
A: It thrives in disturbed soils and can grow in a variety of conditions, including compacted or poor soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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