Chinese globeflower
trollius chinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese globeflower","Chinese trollius"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with bright yellow, globular flowers and pinnate leaves, native to China.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Ranunculales |
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Genus: | Trollius |
| Botanical Name: | Trollius chinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade, protected from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; should not remain waterlogged but should retain some moisture.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter content; well-draining but moisture-retentive.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: After flowering; annually in late winter or early spring to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on removing spent flowers and dead stems without drastically reducing plant
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light); prefers morning sun and afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; provide shade during intense midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid harsh afternoon sun in summer; provide dappled light in hot regions; rotate pots for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-draining loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is rich in organic matter; maintain consistent moisture levels; avoid compacted soil.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cold but requires protection from extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing in direct afternoon sun in summer; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid root burn; apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant enters dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or root cuttings; division is the most reliable method for Trollius chinensis.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes into sections with at least one growth bud.
- Replant immediately at the same depth.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring or fall when the plant is dormant or just beginning active growth.
Environment
Cool, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture but avoid waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining soil mix with added compost or peat moss; can also be propagated in water for root cuttings.
Hormone
Not typically required for division; rooting hormone may help with root cuttings but is not essential.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; root cuttings: roots form in 4–6 weeks, full establishment in 1–2 growing seasons.
Tools Needed
Sharp, sterile knife or spade, gloves, new pots or planting site, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to maintain vigor; ensure each division has healthy roots and buds; water well after replanting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Deadhead by cutting just above a leaf node; cut back stems to the base in late winter for renewal.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; cut back foliage after flowering to maintain tidiness; prune dead or damaged stems in late winter or early spring.
Tools
Sharp bypass pruners, gloves, clean cutting shears.
Checklist
Remove spent blooms; cut back dead or damaged stems; sanitize tools between cuts; avoid pruning in midsummer.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches (5–7.5 cm) in diameter; ensure the new pot has adequate drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil mix, water thoroughly, and place in a shaded area for recovery.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for container-grown plants to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose a slightly larger pot; use fresh, well-draining soil; trim any circling roots; water well after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on weather.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth, increasing to twice weekly in hot, dry periods; reduce watering in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in excessive heat; leaf damage or dieback in freezing temperatures.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage or dormancy; prolonged frost may lead to tissue damage or death if not protected.
Solution: Mulch heavily around the base in winter; cover plants with frost cloth during freezes; move potted plants to a sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may go dormant if conditions are too hot and dry.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation; mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply during active growth; dilute liquid fertilizers; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; apply a liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Trollius chinensis. The toxic parts of the plant can cause irritation and discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Trollius chinensis can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxic compounds in the roots, stems, and leaves may cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTrollius chinensis contains toxic compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's roots, stems, and leaves are the most toxic parts, containing irritant substances that affect the digestive system and skin.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I care for Trollius chinensis?
A: Plant in partial shade with moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly, especially during dry periods.
Q: Does Trollius chinensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its bright flowers.
Q: Is Trollius chinensis toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Ranunculaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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