Fen Ragwort
jacobaea paludosa
Also known as: ["Marsh Ragwort","Wetland Groundsel"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetland areas, characterized by its yellow flowers and toxic properties.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Jacobaea |
| Botanical Name: | Jacobaea paludosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, near water bodies, or in a garden bed with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Moist, fertile, well-draining soil with organic matter like peat or compost.
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.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture; enrich with organic amendments.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (down to 50°F/10°C) are acceptable in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer)
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; adjust for plant size.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F/18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix like peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; keep medium consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems just above a leaf node or bud; thin out crowded areas.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form and better flowering.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/weak stems; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; improves growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse between feedings.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Jacobaea paludosa. Ingestion can cause gastrointestinal and hepatic issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Jacobaea paludosa can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity in dogs due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicJacobaea paludosa contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon ingestion. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver dysfunction, while acute ingestion can result in gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Jacobaea paludosa toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to both dogs and cats.
Q: Where does Jacobaea paludosa typically grow?
A: It is native to wetland areas and prefers moist environments.
Q: Does Jacobaea paludosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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