Winter Cherry
withania frutescens
Also known as: ["Winter Cherry","Ashwagandha"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to parts of Africa and the Mediterranean, known for its small, greenish-yellow flowers and red berries.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Withania |
| Botanical Name: | Withania frutescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sheltered spot, or large container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in dormant perio
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates some direct sun in cooler mornings or late afternoons.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching; place in a spot with filtered light during peak hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting soil; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); can tolerate brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid drafts; use a thermometer to monitor; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above leaf nodes; shape the plant evenly.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; 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 feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress), wilting or leaf drop (heat stress), stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage if prolonged.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, and reduce watering to prevent cold-related root rot.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, and water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicWithania frutescens is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicWithania frutescens is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicWithania frutescens is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known adverse effects when handled or ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Withania frutescens the same as Ashwagandha?
A: No, Ashwagandha refers to Withania somnifera, a different species in the same genus.
Q: How often should I water Withania frutescens?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Withania frutescens attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees and butterflies due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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