Curlycup Gumweed
grindelia squarrosa
Also known as: ["Curlycup Gumweed","Gumplant"]
Overview
A North American native perennial herb with distinctive resinous, curled flower buds and bright yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Grindelia |
| Botanical Name: | Grindelia squarrosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or rock garden in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–30 to 40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- 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 form.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure proper ventilation if grown indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates heat and some cold but not prolonged frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season, avoid in winter
Fertilize lightly to avoid leggy growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing before winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable 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: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
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
Deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or damaged growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil; ensure drainage holes; water lightly 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 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 deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning edges in heat; stunted growth or blackened stems in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or death in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; reduced flowering in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; 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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may exhibit mild gastrointestinal distress after ingesting Grindelia squarrosa. The plant's compounds can cause irritation, though severe toxicity is rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Grindelia squarrosa. The plant's diterpene esters can cause irritation but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicGrindelia squarrosa contains diterpene esters that can cause mild gastrointestinal and dermatological irritation upon ingestion or contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Grindelia squarrosa toxic to pets?
A: Reliable data on toxicity to pets is currently unavailable.
Q: How do you care for Grindelia squarrosa?
A: It thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, requiring minimal watering once established.
Q: Does Grindelia squarrosa attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
