Japanese Youngia
youngia japonica
Also known as: ["Japanese Hawksbeard","Yellow Ox Tongue"]
Overview
A small annual herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, native to East Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Youngia |
| Botanical Name: | Youngia japonica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand; can include some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours per day; tolerates partial shade; adjust for stronger light in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; place in filtered sunlight outdoors; protect from direct midday sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 5–7 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting the plant dry out completely; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam
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 moderate temperatures (15–25°C); can tolerate cooler conditions (10°C) but not frost; thrives in mild climates.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature for indoor plants.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing if the plant shows signs of over-fertilization; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning or evening; remove only dead or overgrown stems; avoid excessive pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., 2–3 cm increase in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose a new pot with drainage holes; use fresh, well-draining soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water early in the day; ensure good drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant to avoid wetting foliage; ensure even moisture distribution; allow excess water to drain away; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and frequently during active growth in spring and early summer; reduce frequency in late summer and fall; minimal watering in winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting or drooping leaves in heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold; stunted growth in extreme temperatures.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of root damage in freezing conditions.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; protect roots with insulating mulch.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may become stunted; soil may dry out too quickly.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; provide shade during peak heat; water more frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicYoungia japonica is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would harm felines. Ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort, but severe toxicity is unlikely.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicYoungia japonica is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines. However, ingestion of large amounts may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fibrous content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicYoungia japonica is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its fibrous nature. There are no significant toxic compounds known to cause severe physiological effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Youngia japonica edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and sometimes used in traditional cuisine.
Q: Does Youngia japonica attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its yellow flowers.
Q: Is Youngia japonica invasive?
A: It can be considered a weed in some regions due to its rapid growth and spread.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days during active |
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