Water Figwort
scrophularia auriculata
Also known as: ["Water Figwort","Ear-leaved Figwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its tall stems and distinctive greenish-yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Scrophularia |
| Botanical Name: | Scrophularia auriculata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter like compost or peat.
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 growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide dappled light in hot climates; place in filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid harsh midday sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid letting the plant sit in water.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soil; ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Protect from frost, avoid sudden temperature swings, maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged stems, shape the plant, 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 crowded, place in 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, trim roots if needed, use fresh soil, water lightly, place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensure water penetrates deeply to reach the root ball, allow excess water to drain completely, water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate roots with mulch, avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute properly, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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
Non-toxicScrophularia auriculata is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScrophularia auriculata is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScrophularia auriculata is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts reported from ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scrophularia auriculata toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Water Figwort attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with Scrophularia auriculata?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves, wilting, and leaf spots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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