Stinking Lettuce

aposeris foetida

Also known as: ["Stinking Lettuce","Fetid Aposeris"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Aposeris Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, known for its unpleasant odor and basal rosette of leaves.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Aposeris
Botanical Name: Aposeris foetida

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: shaded woodland garden or shaded border
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Well-draining to slightly moist.
  • Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light pruning.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; avoid direct sunlight.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate slowly to brighter conditions if moving from shade; protect from harsh afternoon sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor low-light areas.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper care.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full shade

Avoid direct sun; prefers dappled light; adjust placement seasonally.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.

Soil

moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil

pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).

Use organic amendments; maintain consistent moisture; avoid waterlogged soil.

Temperature

Cool to moderate temperatures; prefers 50–70°F (10–21°C); sensitive to extreme heat.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate conditions.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer

Fertilize lightly; avoid over-fertilization; stop in winter.

Propagation

Methods

Division or root cuttings.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Divide clumps carefully.
  2. Replant divisions at the same depth.
  3. Water lightly until established.

Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is not in active bloom.

Environment

Moderate humidity, indirect light, and consistent temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).

Medium

Peat-based potting mix with added perlite for drainage.

Hormone

Not typically required for division; optional for root cuttings.

Timeline

Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: 4–6 weeks for roots, 3–4 months to establish.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, gloves, pots, potting mix.

Quick Tips

Divide in early spring; ensure each division has roots and shoots; keep soil consistently moist.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Trim back dead or yellowing leaves; remove spent flower stalks if present.

Pruning Plan

Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; remove dead foliage; avoid over-pruning.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Early spring before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage.

Method

Gently remove the plant; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot only if the plant becomes overcrowded or root-bound; typically every 2–3 years.

Checklist

Check root health; use fresh soil; ensure proper drainage; water sparingly after repotting.

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 early in the day to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add compost or peat moss to enhance fertility and drainage; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide winter protection; avoid frost exposure; maintain consistent soil moisture.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or premature flowering due to heat stress.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Aposeris foetida may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and overall plant vigor.

Wilting in Aposeris foetida is typically a response to water stress, either due to drought conditions or root damage, which can impair nutrient uptake and lead to plant decline.

Leaf spots on Aposeris foetida are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential spread of infection to other parts of the plant.

Rotting in Aposeris foetida is often associated with fungal or bacterial infections, particularly in moist conditions, leading to tissue decay and potential death of affected parts.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they ingest Aposeris foetida. The plant's toxicity is not severe but can cause discomfort and distress.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Aposeris foetida can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Aposeris foetida contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's physiological impact is primarily localized to the digestive system, leading to discomfort without severe systemic effects.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach pain diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid consumption of any part of the plant. Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Aposeris foetida edible?

A: No reliable information is available regarding its edibility.

Q: Why is it called 'Stinking Lettuce'?

A: Due to its unpleasant odor, especially when the leaves are crushed.

Q: Where is Aposeris foetida typically found?

A: It is native to Europe, often growing in meadows and grasslands.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Silver Dust
View
Ashy Sunflower
View
Giant Sunflower
View
Cantaloupe Hawkweed
View