Eyebright
euphrasia officinalis
Also known as: ["Euphrasia rostkoviana","Euphrasia minima"]
Overview
A small annual herbaceous plant known for its traditional use in treating eye ailments.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Euphrasia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphrasia officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, humid environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain form.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; monitor for signs of light stress.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid letting roots sit in water; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
moist, well-draining, slightly acidic soil
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); thrives in cooler conditions, especially during flowering.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from heat sources; maintain cooler nights for better growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone (optional), plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, remove spent flowers, avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and avoid direct sun for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly, and acclimate slowly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water evenly, ensure drainage, avoid foliage wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture distribution; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues; water in the morning for optimal absorption.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity and water retention; use compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning or necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Provide insulation (e.g., move indoors or use frost cloth); avoid cold drafts; maintain consistent temperatures above 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or develop brown edges; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, water more frequently, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage, use diluted fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid winter feeding, flush periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEuphrasia officinalis is not toxic to cats when consumed in typical amounts. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicEuphrasia officinalis is not considered toxic to dogs when ingested in small to moderate amounts. It has no known adverse effects on canine health when used appropriately.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Humans
Non-toxicEuphrasia officinalis, commonly known as eyebright, is generally considered non-toxic for humans when consumed in typical therapeutic doses. It has been traditionally used in herbal medicine, particularly for eye-related conditions, without significant adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in normal quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eyebright safe for pets?
A: Yes, Eyebright is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Eyebright?
A: It has been traditionally used to treat eye infections and other eye-related conditions.
Q: Is Eyebright easy to grow?
A: It requires moderate care and is not particularly tough, making it suitable for enthusiasts rather than beginners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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