Fatleaf Yerba Santa
eriodictyon crassifolium
Also known as: ["Fatleaf Yerba Santa","Thickleaf Yerba Santa"]
Overview
A shrub native to California, known for its thick, leathery leaves and fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","medicinal use"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Eriodictyon |
| Botanical Name: | Eriodictyon crassifolium |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: raised garden bed or slope in coastal or inland areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; mimics natural coastal conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2–3 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if needed to rejuvenate growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window for optimal light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, then let soil dry out; avoid frequent shallow watering; adjust frequency based on season and weather.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with low organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use cactus or succulent mix as a base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); can tolerate mild frosts but thrives in mild climates.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing, which can harm roots; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; seeds can also be used but are less common 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 / 21–24°C), humid environment with 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 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches; heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for rejuvenating soil and root system.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture with finger; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water until water drains from the bottom; avoid wetting foliage; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme cold; wilting or scorching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback if exposed to prolonged freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location or indoors before frost; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots; use frost cloth for outdoor protection.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicEriodictyon crassifolium is slightly toxic to cats if ingested. The plant's compounds can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation, leading to discomfort in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Slightly ToxicWhile not highly toxic, ingestion of Eriodictyon crassifolium by dogs may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant contains compounds that can irritate the digestive tract in some animals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicEriodictyon crassifolium is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to the presence of certain compounds. The plant has been traditionally used for its expectorant and antimicrobial properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eriodictyon crassifolium toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: It is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering once established.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Eriodictyon crassifolium?
A: It has been used medicinally by indigenous peoples for respiratory ailments.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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