Golden Lamb's-ear
lamarckia aurea
Also known as: ["Golden Lamb's-ear","Lamb's-ear Grass"]
Overview
A small, annual grass-like plant with golden-yellow flowers and soft, woolly leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Lamarckia |
| Botanical Name: | Lamarckia aurea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°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, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
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-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers cooler temperatures in winter.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
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 (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- 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 with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
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 healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; 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 directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
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 good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); cease fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLamarckia aurea is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicLamarckia aurea is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not pose a significant risk if ingested or handled by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicLamarckia aurea is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lamarckia aurea toxic to pets?
A: No, Lamarckia aurea is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Lamarckia aurea?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Does Lamarckia aurea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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