Grecian flaxleaf
lithodora fruticosa
Also known as: ["Grecian flaxleaf","Star-of-Bethlehem"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen subshrub with bright blue, star-shaped flowers and needle-like leaves, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Lithodora |
| Botanical Name: | Lithodora fruticosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or as a ground cover in sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity in dry conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late fall to allow dormancy; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is firm but not woody.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of crowded stems and light shaping cuts to maintain form.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim rootbound roots; replace with fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
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 coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pH is within preferred range.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 20°F (-6°C); roots are sensitive to freezing.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with a cover; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 90°F (32°C); soil dries out quickly.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLithodora fruticosa is not toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects on feline health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLithodora fruticosa is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects on canine health from ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLithodora fruticosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion or contact.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should Lithodora fruticosa be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Lithodora fruticosa attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Can Lithodora fruticosa be grown in containers?
A: Yes, it can be grown in containers, but ensure good drainage and a sunny location.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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