Three-spined toothcup
emex spinosa
Also known as: ["Three-cornered jack","Spiny emex"]
Overview
A spiny annual herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its three-spined fruits.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Polygalales |
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Genus: | Emex |
| Botanical Name: | Emex spinosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in sunny, open areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning in winter.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near large windows with direct sun exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or air vents; maintain consistent temperatures; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of stress.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
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 plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster root development
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased growth; shape plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before new growth begins
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows or soil dries out too quickly.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overwatering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); leaves may turn yellow or brown.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if necessary; insulate pots with bubble wrap during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; soil may dry out too quickly; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are particularly sensitive to the toxins in Emex spinosa, which can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and potential systemic toxicity. The saponins in the plant can lead to irritation and inflammation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIn dogs, Emex spinosa can cause significant gastrointestinal upset due to its saponin content. The toxins can lead to irritation of the digestive system and may result in systemic effects if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicEmex spinosa contains saponins and other toxic compounds that can cause gastrointestinal distress and systemic effects upon ingestion. The plant's physiological impact includes irritation of the digestive tract and potential absorption of toxins into the bloodstream, leading to more severe symptoms in some cases.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Emex spinosa edible?
A: No, it is not commonly consumed and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: How does Emex spinosa spread?
A: It spreads via its spiny fruits that attach to animals and clothing, facilitating dispersal.
Q: Is Emex spinosa invasive?
A: Yes, it can be invasive in some regions, particularly in disturbed areas.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Polygonaceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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