Greek false horehound
ballota pseudodictamnus
Also known as: ["Cotton Bush","Sideritis pseudodictamnus"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen subshrub with silvery-gray foliage and small white flowers, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ballota |
| Botanical Name: | Ballota pseudodictamnus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in a warm, dry spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh midday sun; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; provide shade during peak summer; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5)
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; use terra cotta pots for better drainage.
Temperature
Prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid drafty areas; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before active growth; remove dead or diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins
Pot Size
One size up; increase pot diameter by 2–3 inches
Method
Use a well-draining soil mix; gently tease out roots; place in a pot 1–2 inches larger; water lightly after repotting
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers being slightly root-bound
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; ensure drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; 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 once every 4–6 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in extreme heat; stunted growth or leaf curl in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root rot if soil remains wet in cold temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil dries quickly; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt; growth may slow if humidity is too low.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with a pebble tray; water deeply but infrequently.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; use diluted 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 spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Ballota pseudodictamnus. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Ballota pseudodictamnus can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicBallota pseudodictamnus contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in significant quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ballota pseudodictamnus toxic to pets?
A: There is no definitive information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Ballota pseudodictamnus?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings, as it is drought-tolerant.
Q: Does Ballota pseudodictamnus attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers and foliage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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