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theligonum cynocrambe
Also known as: []
Overview
A rare and unusual flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Theligonum |
| Botanical Name: | Theligonum cynocrambe |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens or sunny, open borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging and root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter. A cactus or succulent mix amended with perlite or coarse sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very low
- 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 pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate direct morning sun but should be protected from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate the plant gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in a spot with filtered light or dappled shade during peak sun hours. Indoors, position near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing directly under harsh afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering; water thoroughly until excess drains from the bottom.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C). Can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in consistently warm conditions. Reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; increase watering in heat; adjust care based on seasonal temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Take 4–6 inch cuttings from healthy, non-flowering stems.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–6 weeks. New growth may appear after 8–12 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools to prevent infection; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make angled cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove crossing or crowded branches to improve structure.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or overgrown stems. Pruning also improves air circulation and light penetration.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol), gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape the plant; clean up debris; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring, just before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (e.g., 2–3 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove the plant gently, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. Repotting refreshes soil and provides space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; position plant correctly; water well; place in shaded area for recovery.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and allow excess water to drain to prevent root rot. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 3–4 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting. Cold stress may cause blackened or mushy stems, while heat stress can lead to scorched leaves.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow metabolic processes, leading to reduced water uptake and nutrient absorption. Prolonged cold can cause root damage and eventual plant death.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location or indoors during cold spells. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate roots. Avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat increases transpiration, leading to dehydration, wilting, and leaf scorch. High temperatures can also disrupt nutrient uptake and flower development.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity with misting, and water more frequently but avoid waterlogging. Ensure good air circulation to prevent heat buildup.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter when growth slows.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTheligonum cynocrambe is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in felines following exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicTheligonum cynocrambe is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported cases of adverse effects in canines following exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicTheligonum cynocrambe is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. The plant has not been documented to cause adverse effects when handled or ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Theligonum cynocrambe easy to grow?
A: No, it is considered very challenging and is best suited for expert gardeners.
Q: Where is Theligonum cynocrambe native to?
A: It is native to the Mediterranean region.
Q: Does Theligonum cynocrambe attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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