Woad
isatis tinctoria
Also known as: ["Dye woad","Glory of the field","German indigo"]
Overview
A herbaceous biennial plant historically used for blue dye production, with yellow flowers and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","culinary herb","aesthetic foliage","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Isatis |
| Botanical Name: | Isatis tinctoria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
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; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and airy; avoid compacted soil; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly to prevent overgrowth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; seeds are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer for cuttings; seeds can be sown in spring or fall.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions (70–75°F) with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; seedlings prefer loose, fertile soil.
Hormone
Optional for cuttings; rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 3–6 weeks; seedlings emerge in 1–2 weeks and mature in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for mature plants to refresh soil.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move indoors if temperatures drop below 50°F.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Isatis tinctoria. The plant's glucosinolates can cause discomfort, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Isatis tinctoria can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of glucosinolates. While not highly toxic, it is advisable to prevent dogs from consuming large amounts of the plant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicIsatis tinctoria, commonly known as woad, contains glucosinolates which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if consumed in significant amounts. The plant has been historically used for dye production and medicinal purposes, but excessive ingestion may lead to adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is woad toxic to humans?
A: Woad is mildly toxic to humans if ingested in large quantities.
Q: Can woad be used for dyeing?
A: Yes, woad has been historically used to produce a blue dye.
Q: Is woad easy to grow?
A: Woad is relatively easy to grow, requiring moderate care and maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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