False Viper

tolpis staticifolia

Also known as: ["False Viper","Viper's-grass"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Tolpis Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, herbaceous plant in the family Asteraceae, native to the Mediterranean region.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","rare/collector’s item"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Tolpis
Botanical Name: Tolpis staticifolia

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant 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.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid drafty areas.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

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

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growth period 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 fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

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 if soil remains wet.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; ensure soil dries between waterings.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or drying out if exposed to excessive heat without adequate water.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow leaves in Tolpis staticifolia may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

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

Leaf spots on Tolpis staticifolia may be caused by fungal or bacterial infections, resulting in reduced photosynthesis and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Tolpis staticifolia due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Tolpis staticifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic compounds that would cause harm to felines upon ingestion.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for growing this plant around cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Tolpis staticifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects or toxic compounds associated with ingestion by canines.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for growing this plant around dogs.
Humans
Non-toxic

Tolpis staticifolia is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. The plant has no documented toxic compounds or physiological impacts when ingested.

⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

No special precautions are necessary for handling or growing this plant around humans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tolpis staticifolia toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Tolpis staticifolia?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Tolpis staticifolia attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it a good choice for wildlife gardens.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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