Mandrake
mandragora officinarum
Also known as: ["Mandragora autumnalis","Mandragora turcomanica"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with a thick, fleshy root that resembles a human figure, historically used in folk medicine and magic.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Mandragora |
| Botanical Name: | Mandragora officinarum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: unknown
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light if outdoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with some sand
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and coarse sand; avoid compacted soil; ensure bottom drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost; prefers stable conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable conditions during flowering.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds are viable but slower.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; remove crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant to encourage bushiness; promote airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it’s not too large to avoid waterlogging.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in fluctuating temperatures.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged cold can lead to death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or leaf drop; may cease flowering or fruiting.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicMandragora officinarum is highly toxic to cats due to its tropane alkaloid content. These compounds disrupt the nervous system and can cause severe poisoning, even in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe tropane alkaloids in Mandragora officinarum are highly toxic to dogs, disrupting normal neurological and physiological functions. Even small amounts can lead to severe anticholinergic poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicMandragora officinarum contains tropane alkaloids, primarily atropine, scopolamine, and hyoscyamine, which interfere with acetylcholine neurotransmission, leading to anticholinergic effects. Ingestion can cause severe physiological disturbances, including central nervous system depression or excitation, depending on the dose.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Mandragora officinarum safe to grow at home?
A: No, it is highly toxic and should be handled with extreme caution.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Mandragora officinarum?
A: Historically, it has been used in folk medicine for pain relief and as a narcotic, and in magical rituals.
Q: How should Mandragora officinarum be cared for?
A: It requires well-drained soil, partial shade, and protection from frost; overwatering should be avoided to prevent root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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