Narrow-leaved Juppie
centranthus angustifolius
Also known as: ["Jupiter's beard","Valerianella angustifolia"]
Overview
A hardy perennial with clusters of small, fragrant pink or white flowers atop slender stems, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Centranthus |
| Botanical Name: | Centranthus angustifolius |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or sunny garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, gritty soil; a mix of standard potting soil with sand or perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; light pruning can be done as needed to remove dead or damaged growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; prefers 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, though it can tolerate some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot regions; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid sudden light changes; provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; rotate plants for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers temperate climates; ideal range is 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate mild frosts but is sensitive to prolonged cold or extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; apply before active growth begins.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring or fall.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer for stem cuttings; early spring or fall for seeds or division.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of perlite and peat moss, or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–4 weeks; seeds can take 2–4 weeks to germinate and several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead spent flowers; trim back leggy stems to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves, clean cutting tools.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased growth; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, as Centranthus prefers being slightly root-bound. Typically every 2–3 years or when growth slows.
Checklist
Choose a larger pot; use fresh soil; trim roots if needed; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Water deeply to encourage deep roots, ensuring water drains away from the plant. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand, perlite, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or wilting in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or dieback, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; ensure well-drained soil; move potted plants to a sheltered location if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering, especially if combined with drought.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid frequent feeding, as Centranthus is not heavy feeder. Dilute liquid fertilizer to half strength if used.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCentranthus angustifolius is not considered toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicCentranthus angustifolius is not considered toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicCentranthus angustifolius is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested or touched.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Centranthus angustifolius toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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