Dogwood Squama
lathraea squamaria
Also known as: ["Frog's Fumitory","Purple Toothwort"]
Overview
A parasitic flowering plant with fleshy, purple-pink flowers that grows underground, deriving nutrients from host plants.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Lathraea |
| Botanical Name: | Lathraea squamaria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; prefers consistently moist but not waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with high organic content; benefits from leaf mold or compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when dead foliage is present.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing parts without altering the plant's natural form.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions, thriving in dappled sunlight or indirect light for 4–6 hours daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch leaves; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor areas with minimal direct sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun exposure; thrive in shaded spots; adjust light levels gradually during relocation.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, reduce in dormancy
Water thoroughly but infrequently to encourage deep root growth; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings to prevent rot; avoid overhead watering to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
moist, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil remains moist but not waterlogged; enrich with organic matter annually; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions during active growth and dormancy.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months during spring
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilization to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings; best method for this parasitic plant due to its specialized growth habit.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Separate rhizomes with healthy buds.
- Plant 2–3 inches deep in prepared soil.
- Keep moist and shaded until established.
Best Time: Early spring, when the plant is emerging from dormancy and actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Moist, well-draining soil mix with added organic matter; can be propagated in pots or directly in the ground near host plants.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; rooting hormone may help with root cuttings but is not essential.
Timeline
Rhizome division can establish in 1–2 months; root cuttings may take 2–3 months to develop new shoots.
Tools Needed
Garden knife, gloves, small trowel, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure rhizomes have visible buds; maintain consistent moisture; protect from direct sun during establishment.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or damaged leaves at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and aesthetics.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect for dead/damaged foliage; use clean tools; remove only necessary parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots to prevent waterlogging.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, and repot in fresh, well-draining soil with added organic matter; ensure the pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes overcrowded or the soil degrades; typically every 2–3 years during active growth.
Checklist
Check root health; use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; handle roots gently.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain freely from the pot or planting site; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the soil surface is dry to the touch, typically every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in dormant periods (late summer to winter).
Soil Improvement
Add leaf mold, compost, or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; mold or rot in overly cold or damp conditions.
Cold Stress
Prolonged cold or frost can damage foliage and inhibit growth; may enter dormancy if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold; maintain consistent soil moisture to avoid desiccation.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or premature dormancy; may struggle in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid dormant periods; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt accumulation.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing during dormancy.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are susceptible to the toxic effects of Lathraea squamaria, particularly if they ingest the roots or rhizomes, which can cause severe gastrointestinal and neurological distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Lathraea squamaria can lead to severe gastrointestinal upset and potential neurological symptoms due to the plant's toxic compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicLathraea squamaria contains toxic compounds that can cause significant physiological disturbances upon ingestion. The plant's roots and rhizomes are particularly potent, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lathraea squamaria safe for pets?
A: No, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Lathraea squamaria grow?
A: It is a parasitic plant that grows underground, deriving nutrients from host plants.
Q: Is Lathraea squamaria rare?
A: Yes, it is considered a rare plant and is often sought by collectors.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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