Pyrenean Horminum
horminum pyrenaicum
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Horminum"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial native to the Pyrenees, known for its aromatic foliage and spiky inflorescences.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Horminum |
| Botanical Name: | Horminum pyrenaicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- 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
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty 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 the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in the brightest possible location indoors; move outdoors in spring/summer only after hardening off.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid north-facing windows indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, rocky, alkaline soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent day/night cycles.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; apply to moist soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots in 3–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut stems just above a leaf node; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/damaged growth; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; place in a pot one size larger.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; prefers slightly root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Check root boundness; use fresh soil; trim roots if necessary; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overwatering.
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 out 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, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may cease in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Horminum pyrenaicum. The plant's essential oils can cause mild irritation, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Horminum pyrenaicum can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's essential oils and other compounds. Symptoms are typically not severe but should be monitored.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHorminum pyrenaicum contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's essential oils may lead to mild physiological effects when ingested in small quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Horminum pyrenaicum suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Q: Does Horminum pyrenaicum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Horminum pyrenaicum toxic to pets?
A: Unknown, no specific studies are available.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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