Small-flowered fumitory
fumaria parviflora
Also known as: ["Small-flowered fumitory","Fumaria parviflora"]
Overview
A delicate annual herb with small, pinkish-white flowers and finely divided leaves, native to parts of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria parviflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade or container with protection from extreme heat
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during the growing season; deadhead flowers regularly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching; protect from direct midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (15–25°C); can tolerate cooler conditions but avoid frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent room temperature indoors; protect from cold winds.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop feeding in fall.
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 (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or snip stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refreshment.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot with drainage holes; use fresh potting mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure drainage holes are clear; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage; allow excess water to drain away completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 10°C.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective cover if outdoors; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in temperatures above 30°C; growth may become stressed.
Solution: Increase humidity with misting; provide shade during peak heat; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; avoid contact with roots directly.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFumaria parviflora is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicFumaria parviflora is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with its ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicFumaria parviflora is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for its potential medicinal properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria parviflora toxic to pets?
A: Reliable data on toxicity to pets is unavailable.
Q: How does Fumaria parviflora grow?
A: It is an annual herb that spreads easily in disturbed soils and prefers partial shade.
Q: Does Fumaria parviflora have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses include herbal remedies, though scientific validation is limited.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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