Wood Betony
scrophularia scorodonia
Also known as: ["Wood Betony","Lenten Honeysuckle"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant with tall stems and distinctive green leaves, known for its small greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in summer.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Scrophularia |
| Botanical Name: | Scrophularia scorodonia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, fertile soil with organic matter; can use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and 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 the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in late summer.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to avoid scorching; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct sun in summer afternoons.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, fertile loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Protect from frost; provide shade in summer; maintain moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormancy.
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 below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth indicates establishment, typically within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity initially; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to a healthy bud or node; remove crossing or weak growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (optional).
Checklist
Disinfect tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; 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; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or drooping in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors before frost; use frost cloth for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced vigor; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicScrophularia scorodonia is considered slightly toxic to cats. The saponins and other compounds present in the roots and leaves can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation. While not usually severe, ingestion may lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicScrophularia scorodonia can be slightly toxic to dogs if ingested. The plant contains saponins and other compounds that may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. While not typically life-threatening, ingestion can lead to discomfort and mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScrophularia scorodonia, commonly known as water figwort, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of the roots or leaves may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of saponins and other secondary metabolites. These compounds can irritate the digestive tract but are not considered highly toxic.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Wood Betony toxic to pets?
A: No, Wood Betony is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common uses of Wood Betony?
A: It is primarily used for ornamental purposes and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies.
Q: How should Wood Betony be cared for?
A: It prefers partial shade, well-drained soil, and moderate watering; it is relatively easy to care for.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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