Dogsbane
eupatorium capillifolium
Also known as: ["Dogsbane","Dogs-tail","Pussy-tails"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with slender, grass-like leaves and small, white flowers in dense clusters.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Eupatorium |
| Botanical Name: | Eupatorium capillifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in open areas with good air circulation
- 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 root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate. Remove up to one-third of the plant’s height and width if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy with insufficient light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure adequate light indoors if grown as a container plant.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; supplement with grow lights if indoors.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; prioritize deep watering over frequent shallow applications.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions, ideal range 65–85°F (18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers mild winters.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heat vents; use shade cloth in extreme heat; protect roots from freezing.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late summer to prepare for dormancy; use organic alternatives like compost tea for gentle nutrition.
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.
- Maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut stems just above a leaf node or bud. Remove dead or crossing branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems. Also prune after flowering to promote reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; make clean cuts; dispose of pruned material.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; allow drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, reducing frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds in heavy soils.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning foliage in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause root damage or dieback, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move containers indoors or to a sheltered location; ensure well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Water deeply during heatwaves; provide afternoon shade if possible; increase humidity around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in Eupatorium capillifolium. Chronic ingestion poses a greater risk than acute exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Eupatorium capillifolium can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Chronic exposure is more concerning than acute ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEupatorium capillifolium contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The toxic effects are primarily associated with prolonged exposure rather than acute toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eupatorium capillifolium toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract 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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