Tansy ragwort
jacobaea vulgaris
Also known as: ["Tansy ragwort","St. James-wort","Feverwort"]
Overview
A biennial or short-lived perennial herbaceous plant native to Eurasia, known for its bright yellow flower heads and toxic properties.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Jacobaea |
| Botanical Name: | Jacobaea vulgaris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or border, prefers open areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added 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 old growth if needed.
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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure good aeration; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, not required in fall and winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may be slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and improve air circulation.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; remove plant carefully; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection; move indoors in freezing conditions; ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
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
ToxicJacobaea vulgaris is toxic to cats due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content, which can lead to severe liver toxicity and failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Jacobaea vulgaris are toxic to dogs, causing liver damage and potential liver failure with chronic exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicJacobaea vulgaris contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are hepatotoxic and can cause severe liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to cirrhosis or liver failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jacobaea vulgaris safe for pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Can Jacobaea vulgaris be used in traditional medicine?
A: Historically, it has been used, but its toxicity makes it unsafe for modern use.
Q: How does Jacobaea vulgaris spread?
A: It spreads through seeds, which can remain viable in the soil for many years.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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