Spanish chamomile
anacyclus valentinus
Also known as: ["Valentine's anacyclus","false chamomile"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Anacyclus |
| Botanical Name: | Anacyclus valentinus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate, removing up to one-third of the plant if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with some afternoon shade in hot climates. Adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with coarse materials.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during growing season; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; apply to moist soil.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; disinfect tools after use.
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; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or root damage if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, or plant may wilt if temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Provide partial shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are also susceptible to the hepatotoxic effects of pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Anacyclus valentinus. The toxicity is more likely to manifest with chronic exposure rather than acute ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Anacyclus valentinus can cause liver damage in dogs, similar to humans, though dogs may be less susceptible to acute toxicity. Chronic exposure is more concerning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicAnacyclus valentinus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily due to the metabolic activation of these compounds, leading to hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Spanish chamomile the same as true chamomile?
A: No, Spanish chamomile (Anacyclus valentinus) is botanically distinct from true chamomile (Chamomilla recutita), though both belong to the Asteraceae family.
Q: Does Anacyclus valentinus have any medicinal uses?
A: It is not widely recognized for medicinal properties, though some traditional uses in Mediterranean regions exist.
Q: How often should I water Anacyclus valentinus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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