Strawberry Bush
thymelaea hirsuta
Also known as: ["False Strawberry","Strawberry Bush"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub with small, bright red fruits resembling strawberries, though not botanically related.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","seasonal color change"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus: | Thymelaea |
| Botanical Name: | Thymelaea hirsuta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden or xeriscaped area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 the oldest stems to rejuvenate growth
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
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
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; avoid low-light areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
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 (70–75°F / 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, perlite, peat moss
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning and heading back to promote branching
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; make clean cuts just above buds; remove dead or diseased wood.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf drop or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or leaf drop; may cease flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; 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
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Thymelaea hirsuta. The toxicity is generally low, but caution is advised due to cats' sensitivity to certain plant compounds.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Thymelaea hirsuta seeds or berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicThymelaea hirsuta contains toxic compounds that can cause mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system, with minimal systemic effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thymelaea hirsuta edible?
A: The fruits resemble strawberries but are not botanically related and should not be consumed without expert verification.
Q: How much sunlight does it need?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: Is it suitable for arid climates?
A: Yes, it is drought-tolerant and well-suited for arid or semi-arid regions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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