Rusty Foxglove
phuopsis stylosa
Also known as: ["Grass Pink Foxglove","Stylosa"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with spikes of small, tubular, pinkish-purple flowers and grass-like foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Phuopsis |
| Botanical Name: | Phuopsis stylosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- 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; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants to sunlight gradually; protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, keep warm and bright.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
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 bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, and place in shade for a few days.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows or soil dries out quickly.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots if necessary, use fresh soil, water lightly, adjust to new conditions.
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.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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 organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhuopsis stylosa is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicPhuopsis stylosa is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicPhuopsis stylosa is not known to have any toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does Phuopsis stylosa grow?
A: It typically reaches 30–45 cm in height.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full shade.
Q: Is it suitable for container gardening?
A: Yes, but it may need more frequent watering in pots.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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