Moschatel
adoxa moschatellina
Also known as: ["Townhall Clock","Mouse's Breath"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, known for its distinctive small green flowers arranged in a characteristic five-parted head.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Genus: | Adoxa |
| Botanical Name: | Adoxa moschatellina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded, moist border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate drainage; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, humus-rich soil with some sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to sunlight changes; avoid direct afternoon sun; place in a shaded spot outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, 50–70°F (10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions in winter.
Keep away from drafts; maintain stable temperatures; avoid sudden fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide clumps.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with root initiation.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), pots, moist propagation medium.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back straggly stems; remove dead or yellowing leaves.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead growth; shape lightly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Use fresh potting mix; ensure good drainage; gently tease out crowded roots.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water until drainage occurs; discard excess water from saucer.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Allow excess water to drain completely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add organic matter like compost; incorporate perlite or sand for aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dormancy if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; maintain consistent temperatures above 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in temperatures above 80°F (27°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize monthly in growing season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAdoxa moschatellina is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks known toxic compounds that would pose a risk to feline health. Any adverse effects would likely be minimal and related to the physical ingestion of plant material.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAdoxa moschatellina is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines. Any symptoms observed would likely be due to the physical properties of the plant rather than chemical toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAdoxa moschatellina is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and plant cell wall components. No significant toxic effects have been documented in the literature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Moschatel have any culinary uses?
A: No, it is not commonly used in culinary applications.
Q: Is Moschatel suitable for indoor cultivation?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in shaded woodland settings.
Q: How does Moschatel get its name?
A: The common name 'Moschatel' refers to the musky fragrance of its flowers, while 'Townhall Clock' describes the unique arrangement of its flower heads.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Adoxaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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