Spiny Restharrow

ononis spinosa

Also known as: ["Spiny Restharrow","Gall Weed","Sarothamnus spinosus"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Ononis Category: Shrubs

Overview

A deciduous shrub with spiny stems and pinkish-white flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Ononis
Botanical Name: Ononis spinosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or wildflower meadows
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; tolerates poor soils.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may flower less.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Use gritty mix; avoid heavy clay; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 4–8; tolerates temperatures between -20°C to 30°C; prefers cool roots.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter

Fertilize sparingly; avoid fertilizing in winter; water before and after feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may take longer to germinate.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist.

Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment can take 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded areas; remove dead or diseased wood.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, loppers, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; 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; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or dieback in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Leaves may turn yellow or brown; growth slows; roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.

Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost; ensure well-draining soil to prevent root damage.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water before and after; avoid over-fertilization.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; reduce or stop in late summer.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Ononis spinosa can indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as nitrogen or iron, or may be a response to environmental stressors like waterlogging or excessive sunlight.

Wilting in Ononis spinosa is typically a sign of water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage that impairs water uptake.

Leaf spots on Ononis spinosa are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can affect photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Rotting in Ononis spinosa is often caused by fungal pathogens or bacterial infections, particularly in the roots or stem, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ononis spinosa, particularly the seeds and roots. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion should be avoided.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Ononis spinosa seeds and roots can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs, but caution is advised to prevent accidental ingestion.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ononis spinosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild systemic effects when ingested in significant quantities. The seeds and roots are the primary toxic parts due to their higher concentration of these compounds.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting abdominal pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ononis spinosa toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data to confirm toxicity to pets.

Q: How does Ononis spinosa grow?

A: It thrives in well-drained soils and full sun, with a preference for dry conditions.

Q: Does Ononis spinosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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