Loesel's Trefoil
sisymbrium loeselii
Also known as: ["Loesel's Sisymbrium","Loesel's Rocket"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant in the family Brassicaceae, known for its small yellow flowers and pinnate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Sisymbrium |
| Botanical Name: | Sisymbrium loeselii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in an open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Prefers cooler conditions, especially at night.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent night temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Seed propagation is most common and reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly.
- Keep moist.
- Thin seedlings.
- Transplant when established.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (60–70°F or 15–21°C), bright indirect light, and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or sandy loam.
Hormone
Not required for seeds.
Timeline
Germination in 1–3 weeks; mature plant in 1–2 years.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, well-draining soil, water spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Sow seeds in groups; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide gentle warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves and spent flower stalks.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged growth to maintain vigor.
Tools
Clean scissors or small pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; remove dead/damaged parts; avoid over-pruning; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Generally, every 2–3 years is sufficient.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water 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 at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or premature flowering in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates. Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop. Growth may slow or stop in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that consume Sisymbrium loeselii may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The glucosinolates in the plant can cause digestive upset, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Sisymbrium loeselii by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of glucosinolates. The effects are typically not severe but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSisymbrium loeselii contains glucosinolates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress upon ingestion. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sisymbrium loeselii toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Loesel's Trefoil grow?
A: It is an annual plant that thrives in disturbed soils and open areas.
Q: Does Loesel's Trefoil attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its small yellow flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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