flixweed

descurainia sophia

Also known as: ["tansy mustard","poverty weed","Sophia's flixweed"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Descurainia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A widespread annual herbaceous plant in the Brassicaceae family, characterized by its finely divided leaves and small, yellowish flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Descurainia
Botanical Name: Descurainia sophia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: open fields, meadows, or rock gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

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

Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Seed or stem cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Prepare medium.
  2. Sow seeds or take cuttings.
  3. Maintain moisture.
  4. Provide warmth.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss.

Hormone

Not necessary for seeds; optional for stem cuttings to encourage rooting.

Timeline

Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruners, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle.

Quick Tips

Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep cuttings humid; avoid overwatering.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.

Tools

Clean pruners or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
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 good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; susceptible to frost damage.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in cold climates; avoid sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Descurainia sophia can indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogen infection, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Descurainia sophia is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Descurainia sophia are often caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Descurainia sophia is typically caused by fungal pathogens in waterlogged soils, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Descurainia sophia may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing Descurainia sophia. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Descurainia sophia by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep Descurainia sophia out of reach of dogs. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Descurainia sophia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other symptoms upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact is generally limited to mild irritation of the digestive tract.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of Descurainia sophia. Keep away from children and pets.
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 Descurainia sophia edible?

A: No, it is mildly toxic and should not be consumed.

Q: How does this plant spread?

A: It spreads via seeds, which are easily dispersed by wind or water.

Q: Does this plant require special care?

A: No, it is very hardy and requires minimal maintenance.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers"]
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