False Garlic
nothoscordum bivalve
Also known as: ["Crow Poison","False Garlic","Crow Poison","False Garlic"]
Overview
A bulbous perennial herb native to North America, characterized by grass-like leaves and small, white, star-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Asparagales |
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Genus: | Nothoscordum |
| Botanical Name: | Nothoscordum bivalve |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area, or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when foliage looks untidy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; remove only dead or yellowing leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure soil dries between waterings; amend with organic matter; check drainage regularly.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; apply after watering; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or division of bulbs; stem cuttings can also be used but are less common.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Prepare medium.
- Plant seeds or divisions.
- Maintain humidity.
- Provide warmth.
- Monitor for growth.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; for seeds, use a standard seed-starting mix.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds or division; optional for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds may take 2–4 weeks to germinate; bulbs divide in 1–2 months; cuttings root in 3–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid disturbing young roots.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead foliage at the base; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Inspect plant; remove dead leaves; clean tools; dispose of debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring good drainage.
Method
Gently remove plant; loosen roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when bulbs become crowded; beneficial for growth and flowering.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Nothoscordum bivalve may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms. The toxic parts, particularly the bulbs and leaves, contain compounds that can irritate the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Nothoscordum bivalve can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds in the bulbs and leaves may cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicNothoscordum bivalve contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and irritation upon ingestion. The plant's bulbs and leaves are the primary toxic parts, containing substances that may disrupt normal digestive processes.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Nothoscordum bivalve toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is currently unavailable.
Q: How should I care for Nothoscordum bivalve?
A: It requires low maintenance, prefers full sun to partial shade, and is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Nothoscordum bivalve attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaryllidaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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