Hemp-agrimony
eupatorium cannabinum
Also known as: ["Hemp agrimony","Hemp agrimony eupatorium"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its attractive pinkish-purple flower clusters and feathery leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Eupatorium |
| Botanical Name: | Eupatorium cannabinum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: near water features or in damp garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; prefers consistently moist soil.
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove up to one-third of old stems if overcrowded.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates dappled shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching. In hot regions, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, more frequently in dry conditions
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, rich, loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Keep soil consistently moist; avoid waterlogged conditions; enrich with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights and can survive mild frosts.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from harsh winds; maintain consistent humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer before new growth emerges; water thoroughly after fertilizing; avoid over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F or 18–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, 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
Cut stems back to the base or just above a healthy bud; thin out dense growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems annually to maintain vigor and encourage new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, bypass secateurs, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased stems; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; replant in fresh soil with good drainage; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to prevent congestion.
Checklist
Choose new pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and moisture retention; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location if in a pot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength if applied monthly during growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Eupatorium cannabinum. The plant is not highly toxic to felines but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Eupatorium cannabinum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in large amounts.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEupatorium cannabinum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eupatorium cannabinum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Hemp-agrimony attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How difficult is it to care for Eupatorium cannabinum?
A: It is relatively easy to care for, requiring moderate maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, more freque |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store