Pyrenean Cat's-Ear
scorzoneroides pyrenaica
Also known as: ["Pyrenean Cat's-Ear"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Pyrenees region, characterized by its daisy-like yellow flowers and basal rosette of leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Scorzoneroides |
| Botanical Name: | Scorzoneroides pyrenaica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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; avoid heavy clay.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for health.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
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 mix of peat, perlite, and sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional month.
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 sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; trim leggy stems; remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming.
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 parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for fresh soil and growth space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.
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; avoid contact with roots.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid 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-toxicScorzoneroides pyrenaica is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScorzoneroides pyrenaica is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful to canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScorzoneroides pyrenaica is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scorzoneroides pyrenaica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common problems with this plant?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves and wilting.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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