Alpine mignonette
reseda phyteuma
Also known as: ["Alpine rocket","small mignonette"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to alpine regions, known for its fragrant, small yellow-green flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","cold hardy"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Resedaceae |
| Genus: | Reseda |
| Botanical Name: | Reseda phyteuma |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny or partially shaded spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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: 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 old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Provide afternoon shade in hot climates. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to diffuse intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid waterlogging; ensure good drainage.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights during dormancy.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before flowering.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Early spring or after flowering when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment 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 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
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 pot. Reseda phyteuma benefits from fresh soil and root space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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 without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then discard excess to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth, reducing frequency in winter dormancy. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse 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 bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or damage if exposed to prolonged frost or freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location. Avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat, especially if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicReseda phyteuma is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicReseda phyteuma is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or physiological impacts associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicReseda phyteuma, commonly known as the small mignonette, is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Reseda phyteuma toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Alpine mignonette?
A: It thrives in well-drained soil and partial to full sun, typical of alpine environments.
Q: Does Reseda phyteuma attract wildlife?
A: Yes, its fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Resedaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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