Summer cypress

bassia scoparia

Also known as: ["Firebush","Kochia scoparia","Belvedere"]

Family: Chenopodiaceae Genus: Bassia Category: Flowers

Overview

An annual herbaceous plant known for its rapid growth and vibrant red foliage in autumn.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Caryophyllales
Family: Chenopodiaceae
Genus: Bassia
Botanical Name: Bassia scoparia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in open, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure proper air circulation to prevent fungal issues.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or overwatering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun is best; rotate plants for even growth; avoid deep shade.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).

Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Hardy in USDA zones 3–7; tolerates temperatures from -30°F to 100°F; prefers cool nights in summer.

Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

rarely required, if used then monthly during spring and summer

Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; stop fertilizing in late summer.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. 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 or perlite and peat moss mixture.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is optional but can speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; plants can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use fresh cuttings; keep soil consistently moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or damaged stems.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Clean tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh 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.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add sand or perlite for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Plants may die back to the ground in severe cold but regrow from the roots in spring.

Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; protect from harsh winds; ensure well-drained soil to prevent frost heave.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt or scorch in intense heat; growth may slow.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Choose balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilizing.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in late summer or fall.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Bassia scoparia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Bassia scoparia can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Bassia scoparia may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Bassia scoparia is often caused by excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Bassia scoparia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats exposed to Bassia scoparia.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Bassia scoparia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs exposed to Bassia scoparia.
Humans
Non-toxic

Bassia scoparia, commonly known as burning bush or summer cypress, is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is often used in landscaping and as an ornamental plant due to its vibrant color in autumn.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human exposure to Bassia scoparia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Bassia scoparia toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Does Bassia scoparia require much maintenance?

A: No, it is a low-maintenance plant.

Q: What are the common uses of Bassia scoparia?

A: It is often used for erosion control, as an ornamental plant, and to attract wildlife.

Quick Reference
Family: Chenopodiaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Sandbur
View
Prostrate Bassia
View