Butterfly Bush, Yellow Alder
turnera subulata
Also known as: ["Yellow Alder","Butterfly Bush"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to tropical regions, known for its bright yellow flowers that attract butterflies.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Genus: | Turnera |
| Botanical Name: | Turnera subulata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm climates, or container in cooler regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove dead or leggy stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may flower less.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in low light.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); sensitive to frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from air conditioning vents; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix or water with occasional nutrient additions.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots or jars.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water regularly if using water propagation.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Encourage bushier growth and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out rootbound roots; place in a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage holes; use appropriate soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is 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, leaf drop, or cessation of flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; flowering may be reduced.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTurnera subulata is not toxic to cats. The plant does not pose any known health risks to felines when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicTurnera subulata is not toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines after ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicTurnera subulata, commonly known as the buttercup flower, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse effects on human health when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Turnera subulata?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Turnera subulata attract butterflies?
A: Yes, it is known for attracting butterflies due to its bright yellow flowers.
Q: Is Turnera subulata toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Passifloraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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