Shepherd's Needles
scandix pecten-veneris
Also known as: ["Shepherd's Needles","Venus's Comb"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant with delicate, needle-like fruits and feathery leaves, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Scandix |
| Botanical Name: | Scandix pecten-veneris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Light, sandy, well-draining soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when plants become overgrown.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or overcrowded stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common and straightforward.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep soil moist.
- Provide warmth.
- Thin seedlings as they grow.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm, bright location with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a blend of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination typically occurs within 1–3 weeks; plants reach maturity in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, seed starting mix, misting spray bottle, labels.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in clusters; thin to strongest seedlings; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune selectively; remove debris; monitor for regrowth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot only one size larger than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as the plant prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; avoid overpotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, or premature seed development.
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; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScandix pecten-veneris is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines, and ingestion is not expected to cause any toxic effects or physiological harm.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScandix pecten-veneris is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause any adverse effects when ingested by canines, and there are no reported cases of toxicity in dogs consuming this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScandix pecten-veneris, commonly known as sand parsley, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of its seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content. There are no significant toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with typical consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scandix pecten-veneris toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How easy is it to grow Scandix pecten-veneris?
A: It is very easy to grow, requiring minimal maintenance.
Q: Does Scandix pecten-veneris attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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