Singapore Daisy
chamaesyce hirta
Also known as: ["Euphorbia hirta"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with hairy stems and leaves, often found in tropical and subtropical regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Genus: | Chamaesyce |
| Botanical Name: | Chamaesyce hirta |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or containers in warm, dry climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining soil mix such as cactus or succulent mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every few months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; use a humidifier in dry, warm environments.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Do not over-fertilize to prevent salt buildup; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or leaf cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a cutting, let it callus for a day, plant in moist medium, keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix such as cactus mix or perlite with peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip stems just above a leaf node or junction; pinch back tips for bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape plant, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one (1–2 inches wider).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or drop in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts and cold windows.
Hot Stress
Leaves may curl, wilt, or develop brown edges in excessive heat above 90°F (32°C).
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Chamaesyce hirta. The sap can also cause skin irritation upon contact.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Chamaesyce hirta by dogs can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the presence of irritant compounds. The sap may also cause skin irritation if contact occurs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChamaesyce hirta contains phorbol esters and other irritant compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The sap is particularly irritating and can lead to dermatitis in sensitive individuals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chamaesyce hirta toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data to confirm its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Chamaesyce hirta be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering.
Q: Does Chamaesyce hirta attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Euphorbiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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