Cucumber Thistle
dipsacus sativus
Also known as: ["Teasel","Fuller's Teasel"]
Overview
A biennial herbaceous plant with tall, spiny stems and unique, prickly flower heads.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Dipsacus |
| Botanical Name: | Dipsacus sativus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open ground with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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 old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent humidity; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; use organic options for gentle nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be used but may take longer to establish.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or 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 use water propagation for cuttings.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems, remove dead leaves, and shape the plant for better air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
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 early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer label; dilute correctly; apply to soil, not foliage; follow seasonal schedule.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicDipsacus sativus is not considered toxic to cats when ingested in normal quantities. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicDipsacus sativus is not considered toxic to dogs when ingested in normal quantities. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Humans
Non-toxicDipsacus sativus, commonly known as cultivated teasel, is not considered toxic to humans when consumed in typical culinary or medicinal doses. The plant has been historically used for its fibrous stems in textile industries, and there are no documented cases of toxicity associated with its ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Dipsacus sativus toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How tall does Dipsacus sativus grow?
A: It can grow up to 1.5 meters tall.
Q: Does Dipsacus sativus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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