Green Ginger, Gromwell
lithospermum officinale
Also known as: ["Green Ginger","Gromwell","Common Gromwell"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and Asia, known for its small, yellow flowers and hard, stone-like seeds.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Lithospermum |
| Botanical Name: | Lithospermum officinale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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; can tolerate poor soils but thrives with enrichment.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 the oldest stems 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 hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in partial shade during peak summer heat; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during intense midday sun; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of garden soil, compost, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to 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
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment in new pot can take 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to a healthy bud or lateral branch; thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if necessary; use fresh soil.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good soil drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand to prevent dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
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-toxicLithospermum officinale is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of poisoning in cats from ingesting this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLithospermum officinale is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of poisoning in dogs from ingesting this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLithospermum officinale is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used historically in traditional medicine for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. No significant toxic effects have been reported from its consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lithospermum officinale edible?
A: No, it is not commonly consumed and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: Does Lithospermum officinale attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Q: How should Lithospermum officinale be cared for?
A: It prefers well-drained soil and partial shade, with moderate watering.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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