Ragged Lady
fumaria muralis
Also known as: ["Ragged Lady","Common Fumitory"]
Overview
A slender, annual herbaceous plant with finely divided leaves and small, pinkish-purple flowers. It is often found in disturbed ground, waste areas, and along roadsides.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria muralis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, shaded borders, or woodland settings
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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 some organic matter; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; 4–6 hours of sunlight per day, with protection from intense midday sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to outdoor light; avoid direct sun exposure for extended periods; provide dappled shade in hot climates.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is ideal; rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers not to exceed 80°F (27°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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 rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
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 (e.g., peat-based with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional but can improve rooting success.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 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; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use 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; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
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
Slows growth and may cause leaf discoloration; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid 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 are susceptible to liver damage from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in the seeds of Fumaria muralis. Even small amounts can be harmful due to their lower body weight.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Fumaria muralis contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that can lead to liver toxicity in dogs if ingested in significant quantities. Chronic exposure is more concerning than acute ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumaria muralis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily associated with the seeds, which are more concentrated in these compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria muralis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: Does Fumaria muralis require much care?
A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Q: What are the common uses of Fumaria muralis?
A: It is primarily considered a weed but can attract wildlife and has some traditional medicinal uses.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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