Subalpine Cow-wheat

melampyrum subalpinum

Also known as: ["Subalpine False Toadflax"]

Family: Orobanchaceae Genus: Melampyrum Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous flowering plant native to alpine and subalpine regions, known for its distinctive yellow flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Orobanchaceae
Genus: Melampyrum
Botanical Name: Melampyrum subalpinum

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, woodland edges, or shaded borders
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter for fertility.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning after flowering; more intensive shaping in early spring if needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in filtered light or dappled shade, especially during peak summer hours. Indoors, position near an east or north-facing window.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter strong light

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, humus-rich soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–70°F (15–21°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids prolonged exposure to frost.

Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone if used.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Transplant once rooted.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems 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

Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before active growth begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 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 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to refresh soil and provide space.

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; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the root zone without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration or dieback. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage.

Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold in cool conditions.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or premature flowering, reducing vigor.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently to keep roots cool.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization

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

Yellowing of leaves in Melampyrum subalpinum may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Melampyrum subalpinum is typically a response to water stress, either due to drought or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Melampyrum subalpinum are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Melampyrum subalpinum is often caused by fungal pathogens or excessive moisture, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential systemic infection.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats that ingest Melampyrum subalpinum may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The plant is not highly toxic to cats but can cause mild discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep cats away from the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

Ingestion of Melampyrum subalpinum by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to dogs but can cause discomfort if consumed.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent dogs from ingesting the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Melampyrum subalpinum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other mild symptoms upon ingestion. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed in significant quantities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea abdominal pain
🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of any part of the plant. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Melampyrum subalpinum toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: Where does Melampyrum subalpinum grow naturally?

A: It is native to alpine and subalpine regions.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Orobanchaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Wood Betony
View
Eyebright
View
Wood Betony
View
Scarlet Indian Paintbrush
View