White Ramping-Fumitory
fumaria capreolata
Also known as: ["Ramping Fumitory","White Fumitory"]
Overview
A delicate annual or biennial plant with creeping stems and small, white to pale pink flowers. Native to Europe and parts of Asia, it is often found in disturbed areas and shaded woodlands.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria capreolata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, removing only spent flowers and leggy stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. Indoors, place near an east or north-facing window. Outdoors, provide dappled shade during peak sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth phase.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a fan for air circulation in hot weather; monitor temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
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 consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or snip with clean shears just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Use fresh potting mix; ensure drainage; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning or late evening; ensure pot has drainage holes.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall/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, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or blackened stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or fungal infections in damp conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or premature flowering.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring/summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Fumaria capreolata, particularly with repeated exposure. The plant is not highly toxic in small quantities but should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Fumaria capreolata can lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease in dogs if ingested regularly. Acute toxicity is rare but possible.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumaria capreolata contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The plant is generally considered of low toxicity for acute exposure but poses risks with prolonged consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria capreolata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: No, it is very easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: Where is Fumaria capreolata commonly found?
A: It is native to Europe and parts of Asia, often growing in disturbed areas and shaded woodlands.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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