Dwarf Rush
tuberaria guttata
Also known as: ["Gutted Rush","Dwarf Rush"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial native to coastal regions, characterized by its bright yellow flowers and rush-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Tuberaria |
| Botanical Name: | Tuberaria guttata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months during active growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; remove dead or overgrown stems without drastically reducing size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure adequate ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogged soil; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of sand and peat; avoid waterlogging; ensure pH is balanced.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but not prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, 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; deadhead spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers.
Tools
Pruning shears, clean scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure pot has drainage; handle roots gently; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly during active growth, allowing soil to dry partially between waterings; reduce watering significantly in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning or necrosis in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, and can lead to fungal infections in cold, damp conditions.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; improve air circulation; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may cease in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during active growth (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicTuberaria guttata can cause mild gastrointestinal issues in cats if ingested. The plant is not highly toxic to felines but can lead to mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Tuberaria guttata by dogs can result in mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTuberaria guttata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant is not highly toxic but can lead to discomfort in humans.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tuberaria guttata suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in coastal conditions due to its salt tolerance.
Q: How often should Tuberaria guttata be watered?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Tuberaria guttata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its bright yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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