Common Globularia

globularia vulgaris

Also known as: ["Globularia alypum","Globularia repens"]

Family: Plantaginaceae Genus: Globularia Category: Shrubs

Overview

A small, evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region, known for its dense clusters of small, yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Plantaginaceae
Genus: Globularia
Botanical Name: Globularia vulgaris

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct indoor light.

Watering

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

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

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter

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

Use a cactus mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate temperatures.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering in heat.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Maintain humidity.

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

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

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

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; 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 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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once 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, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage below 20°F (-6°C); roots can freeze in poorly drained soil.

Solution: Mulch to insulate roots; move potted plants indoors; avoid wet soil in cold conditions.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or dormancy in prolonged heat above 90°F (32°C); may drop flowers.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid wetting foliage.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Globularia vulgaris may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's overall health and photosynthetic efficiency.

Wilting in Globularia vulgaris can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, impacting the plant's ability to maintain turgor pressure and nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Globularia vulgaris may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Globularia vulgaris if the soil is waterlogged, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that consume Globularia vulgaris may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

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

if eaten

Keep plants away from cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Globularia vulgaris by dogs may result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.

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

if eaten

Monitor pets closely if ingestion is suspected. Contact a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Globularia vulgaris contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort vomiting
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children.
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 Globularia vulgaris toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Globularia vulgaris be watered?

A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, especially in drought conditions.

Q: Does Globularia vulgaris attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Plantaginaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Whorled Stemodia
View
Summer Snapdragon
View
Green Toadflax
View
Dalmatian toadflax
View