British Fleabane
inula britannica
Also known as: ["British Inula","Common Fleabane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its daisy-like yellow flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Inula |
| Botanical Name: | Inula britannica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden border or wildflower meadow
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining loamy soil with added organic matter.
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 stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; move outdoors in spring/summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay mixes; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring/summer only; water before feeding; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems back to the base or a healthy bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/damaged growth; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; place in shade initially.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but less frequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; stop in fall/winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use 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-toxicInula britannica is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicInula britannica is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from exposure or ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicInula britannica is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse physiological effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Inula britannica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of British Fleabane?
A: It is used in traditional medicine and as an ornamental plant.
Q: How often should I water Inula britannica?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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