Field Cow-wheat
melampyrum arvense
Also known as: ["Arable Cow-wheat","Field Witchweed"]
Overview
A slender, annual herbaceous plant with yellowish flowers and linear leaves, typically found in arable fields and disturbed ground.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Melampyrum |
| Botanical Name: | Melampyrum arvense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: open field or meadow, also suitable for rock gardens
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead, diseased, or spent flower stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement for seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun in summer; provide dappled shade in hot climates; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; prioritize drainage over frequency.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common; stem cuttings can also be used.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Collect fresh seeds or take cuttings.
- Prepare medium.
- Plant/seal cuttings.
- Maintain humidity.
- 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 seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may germinate in 2–4 weeks; stem cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), pots, seed starting mix, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use fresh seeds for best germination; keep soil consistently moist; provide gentle warmth for rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or lateral branch; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter increase).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or soil quality declines; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; avoid wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry between waterings; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in heat; leaf drop or browning in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; roots become susceptible to rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost; improve soil drainage; move to a sheltered location if possible.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may cease; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to the pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Melampyrum arvense, which can cause liver toxicity and other systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Melampyrum arvense can lead to hepatic veno-occlusive disease in dogs, particularly with repeated exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicMelampyrum arvense contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are cumulative and may not manifest immediately.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Melampyrum arvense toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does this plant grow?
A: It is an annual plant that thrives in disturbed soil and arable fields.
Q: Does it require special care?
A: No, it is very easy to grow with minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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