Willowleaf Fleabane
inula salicina
Also known as: ["Willowleaf Inula","Fleabane"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with lance-shaped leaves and daisy-like yellow flowers, native to Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Inula |
| Botanical Name: | Inula salicina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer sun by providing some afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight. Protect from harsh midday sun, especially in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; amend with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler spring and fall conditions but avoid extreme heat or frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; monitor for heat stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within a few months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back leggy stems, remove dead flowers, and thin overcrowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (2–3 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration. Prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move containers indoors. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize in spring/summer only; avoid contact with roots.
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
Non-toxicInula salicina is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicInula salicina is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicInula salicina is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for its potential medicinal properties, though scientific evidence for these uses is limited.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Inula salicina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does Inula salicina attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How easy is it to care for Inula salicina?
A: It is easy to care for, requiring low maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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