Bastard Fumitory
fumaria bastardii
Also known as: ["Bastard Fumitory"]
Overview
A delicate annual herbaceous plant with finely divided leaves and small pinkish-purple flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria bastardii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partially shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 4–6 weeks during growing season; deadhead flowers regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in filtered light outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but not prolonged cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent cool conditions; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- 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 initially.
Hormone
Optional but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or use clean shears to cut just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or leggy growth; shape as desired; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop in temperatures below 50°F (10°C); susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch in excessive heat; growth may slow or stop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Fumaria bastardii. Chronic exposure can lead to severe hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Fumaria bastardii can cause liver damage in dogs if ingested regularly. Acute toxicity is rare but possible with large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumaria bastardii contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The plant's effects are generally mild but can accumulate over time, leading to hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria bastardii toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Fumaria bastardii grow?
A: It is an annual plant that thrives in disturbed soils and can spread quickly.
Q: Does Fumaria bastardii have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses include herbal remedies, but scientific validation is limited.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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