Marsh Grass-of-Parnassus
parnassia palustris
Also known as: ["Grass-of-Parnassus","Marsh Starwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetlands, characterized by its distinctive white flowers with green veins on the petals.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Parnassiaceae |
| Genus: | Parnassia |
| Botanical Name: | Parnassia palustris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: moist, shaded woodland gardens or boggy areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"1–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–7"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain high humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Moist, humus-rich, well-draining soil; peat-based mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead leaves are present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in warmer months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light to prevent scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.
Watering
every 7–10 days, keeping soil consistently moist but not waterlogged
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; use room-temperature water.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, acidic soil with good drainage
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, pH 5.5–6.5.
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but dislikes extreme heat.
Monitor temperature changes; maintain consistent cool conditions; avoid sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength
Apply fertilizer in the morning for better absorption; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy stem cutting.
- Dip in rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity and warmth.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or bud; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools before use; prune during dry conditions; remove only necessary parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure proper drainage; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; focus on the root zone, avoiding wetting the foliage; allow excess water to drain completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like peat moss or compost; incorporate perlite or sand for aeration and drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth or cause root damage; frost exposure may lead to tissue injury.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cold frame or mulch; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate ventilation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Dilute fertilizer correctly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicParnassia palustris is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds known to be harmful to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicParnassia palustris is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicParnassia palustris is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant effects on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Parnassia palustris toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Parnassia palustris grow naturally?
A: It is native to wetlands and damp meadows in temperate regions.
Q: What are the distinctive features of its flowers?
A: The flowers are white with green veins on the petals and have a unique basal nectary disk.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Parnassiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, keeping soi |
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