Narrowleaf Figwort
scrophularia peregrina
Also known as: ["Figwort","Narrowleaf Water Betony"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to parts of Europe and Asia, known for its distinctive figwort flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Scrophularia |
| Botanical Name: | Scrophularia peregrina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- 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: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems annually to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing near hot windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid overwatering especially in cool conditions.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes, keep away from heating/cooling vents, maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced NPK formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in moist medium, cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity, place in indirect light.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagation dome, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep medium consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape the plant, clean up debris, dispose of pruned material properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly, and place in a shaded area for a few days to recover.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for rejuvenation and fresh soil.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot with drainage, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water after repotting, allow recovery time.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure proper drainage, avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom to ensure even saturation, avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, bud drop, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop if prolonged.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots with bubble wrap, avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced vigor, especially if combined with dry soil.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, water before application, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScrophularia peregrina is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScrophularia peregrina is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScrophularia peregrina is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scrophularia peregrina toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Narrowleaf Figwort?
A: It has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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