Dutchman's Breeches

lathraea clandestina

Also known as: ["Fairy Slipper","Bleeding Heart"]

Family: Scrophulariaceae Genus: Lathraea Category: Flowers

Overview

A parasitic flowering plant native to Europe, known for its unique pinkish-white flowers that resemble Dutchman's breeches.

Benefits & Perks

["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Genus: Lathraea
Botanical Name: Lathraea clandestina

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: not required
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining.
  • Soil Type: Rich, moist but well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade; 4–6 hours of indirect light, especially morning sun. Avoid intense afternoon sun.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in dappled shade outdoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, rotting rhizomes, or failure to flower indicate poor soil or drainage.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
challenging

moderate

Sunlight

partial to full shade

Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide filtered light; rotate for even growth.

Watering

every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce in dormancy

Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; adjust based on dormancy.

Soil

moist, humus-rich, slightly acidic soil

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

Keep soil consistently moist; avoid waterlogging; enrich with organic matter.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions during growth and warmer but not hot during dormancy.

Keep in cool environment during growth; protect from frost; avoid extreme heat.

Fertilizing

rarely required, if used then every 3 months during spring

Use weak fertilizer; avoid during dormancy; apply sparingly.

Propagation

Methods

Division of rhizomes or seed (challenging).

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide rhizomes carefully.
  2. Plant 2–3 inches deep.
  3. Water lightly.
  4. Maintain humidity.

Best Time: Early spring when rhizomes are active.

Environment

Cool, humid conditions with indirect light.

Medium

Peat-based mix with perlite for division; seed requires cold stratification.

Hormone

Not typically needed for rhizome division.

Timeline

Rhizomes establish in 1–2 months; seeds may take 1–2 years to germinate.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, gloves, small trowel.

Quick Tips

Divide when plant is dormant; ensure each section has buds; keep soil moist but not wet.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Snip flower stalks at the base; no leaf pruning required.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning; remove spent flower stalks to maintain tidiness.

Tools

Hand pruners or sharp scissors.

Checklist

Remove dead flowers; clean tools; avoid cutting rhizomes.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth.

Pot Size

Use the same pot size unless overcrowding is severe.

Method

Gently lift rhizomes; divide if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil.

Suggestions

Rarely needed; only if rhizomes become overcrowded.

Checklist

Check for overcrowding; divide if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in summer.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the base of the plant.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during dormancy (summer).

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss for moisture retention; mix sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; rot or failure to emerge in cold.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can inhibit growth and cause root rot if soil remains wet.

Solution: Ensure well-draining soil; protect from frost; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature dormancy.

Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water carefully to avoid heat stress.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid summer and dormancy.

Fertilizing Method

Minimal fertilization. Apply a diluted, balanced liquid fertilizer once in early spring if needed.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Lathraea clandestina may indicate nutrient deficiencies or stress, though this species is primarily parasitic and less susceptible to typical leaf discoloration issues.

Wilting in Lathraea clandestina is rare due to its parasitic nature, which allows it to draw nutrients directly from host plants, but severe environmental stress or damage to the host could cause wilting.

Leaf spots are not commonly reported in Lathraea clandestina, as it lacks true leaves and relies on the host plant for nutrients.

Rotting may occur in Lathraea clandestina if the parasitic attachment to the host is compromised or if the plant is exposed to excessive moisture, leading to root or stem decay.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Toxic

Cats are also susceptible to the toxic effects of Lathraea clandestina. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, necessitating immediate veterinary care.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy tremors difficulty breathing
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary assistance without delay.
Dogs
Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Lathraea clandestina can lead to severe toxic effects, including gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological disturbances. The plant's toxins can cause significant discomfort and require prompt veterinary intervention.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy loss of appetite tremors
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant. If ingestion is suspected, contact a veterinarian immediately.
Humans
Toxic

Lathraea clandestina contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological distress upon ingestion. The plant's effects are primarily due to its irritant properties, which can lead to severe gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain dizziness confusion
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion. Keep out of reach of children and pets. If accidental ingestion occurs, seek medical attention immediately.
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 Lathraea clandestina toxic to pets?

A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.

Q: How does Lathraea clandestina grow?

A: It is a parasitic plant that grows on the roots of other plants, particularly willows and poplars.

Q: What are the common problems with Lathraea clandestina?

A: Common issues include rotting and stunted growth.

Quick Reference
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Care: challenging
Light: partial to full shade
Water: every 2–3 weeks during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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