Sea Lavender, Marsh Rosemary
limonium narbonense
Also known as: ["Marsh Rosemary","Statice"]
Overview
A hardy perennial plant native to coastal regions, known for its vibrant, papery flowers and salt tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus: | Limonium |
| Botanical Name: | Limonium narbonense |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months to maintain shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun if moved from shade; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light indoors; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); can tolerate heat but may struggle below 50°F (10°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize after pruning to encourage new growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
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: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
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 stems just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for container-grown plants.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; avoid waterlogging by ensuring excess drains away.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or wilting in excessive heat; stunted growth or leaf drop in cold conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage; prolonged cold may lead to plant death.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; use frost cloth for garden plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold soil.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering; may go dormant in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in hot climates; increase watering frequency; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLimonium narbonense 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-toxicLimonium narbonense 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-toxicLimonium narbonense is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Limonium narbonense toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Can Limonium narbonense be grown indoors?
A: It is primarily an outdoor plant, thriving in coastal or sunny garden settings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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