Spurless Fluellen
kickxia spuria
Also known as: ["Fluellen","Spurless fluellen"]
Overview
A low-growing annual or biennial plant with small yellow flowers, native to Europe and parts of Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","low maintenance","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Kickxia |
| Botanical Name: | Kickxia spuria |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but blooms best in direct light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Use cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); withstands mild frosts but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize after watering; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim rootbound roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. 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; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in freezing temperatures; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid feeding in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicKickxia spuria is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose any known health risks when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicKickxia spuria is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicKickxia spuria is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Kickxia spuria toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Kickxia spuria grow?
A: It is a low-growing plant that spreads along the ground, often found in disturbed areas or along roadsides.
Q: Does Kickxia spuria require much care?
A: No, it is very easy to grow and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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