Small Restharrow
ononis minutissima
Also known as: ["Small Restharrow"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family, characterized by its diminutive size and trifoliate leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Ononis |
| Botanical Name: | Ononis minutissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, slopes, or dry, sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- 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: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in brightest spot indoors if grown as a houseplant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid direct indoor light if weak.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost tea.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead/damaged growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth first; shape evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growth period begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; trim any circling roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and soil; gently remove plant; inspect roots; place in new pot at same depth.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning 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 for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; move indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C); ensure good air circulation.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat, especially with poor water access.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOnonis minutissima is not considered toxic to cats. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOnonis minutissima is not considered toxic to dogs. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOnonis minutissima is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known toxic effects or physiological impact when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ononis minutissima toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Ononis minutissima attract wildlife?
A: It produces small, attractive flowers that are a food source for bees and butterflies.
Q: What are the typical care requirements for Ononis minutissima?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and moderate watering, and is drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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