Stinkwort
dittrichia graveolens
Also known as: ["Stinkwort","Stinking Ploughman's-thumb","Inula graveolens"]
Overview
An aromatic annual herb native to the Mediterranean region, known for its pungent odor and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Dittrichia |
| Botanical Name: | Dittrichia graveolens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: sunny garden bed or container with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in extreme heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in summer. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure protection from strong winds.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun exposure is key; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure soil dries out between waterings, and avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent warmth for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- 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 and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–4 weeks; plants may be ready to transplant in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or damaged growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune before new growth; remove dead/damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
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 pot to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation of the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or browning in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf drop or damage if below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during freezes. Mulch heavily for in-ground plants.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering if not provided adequate water and partial shade.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Dittrichia graveolens. The plant's compounds can irritate the digestive tract, leading to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dittrichia graveolens may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of sesquiterpene lactones. While generally not life-threatening, it can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicDittrichia graveolens, commonly known as stinkwort, contains sesquiterpene lactones that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The plant's essential oils may also irritate mucous membranes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dittrichia graveolens toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Stinkwort get its name?
A: It is named for its strong, unpleasant odor, particularly when crushed.
Q: Is Stinkwort suitable for garden cultivation?
A: While it can be grown, it is often considered a weed due to its invasive nature and low ornamental value.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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