Blue mustard
chorispora tenella
Also known as: ["Blue mustard","Mosquito plant"]
Overview
An annual herbaceous plant in the family Brassicaceae, known for its small blue or purple flowers and pungent odor.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Chorispora |
| Botanical Name: | Chorispora tenella |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, especially after flowering or when stems become elongated.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating an overgrown plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds for outdoor plants; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F or 10–15°C) during dormancy in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in warm conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Never fertilize dry soil; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentler feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or self-seeding (easily spreads from dropped seeds).
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- 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), high humidity, and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; deadhead flowers immediately after blooming.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flowers to encourage reblooming; trim leggy growth to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean scissors or pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wet foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause root damage or leaf discoloration if exposed to prolonged cold below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective surfaces to reduce heat absorption.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Chorispora tenella may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Chorispora tenella may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChorispora tenella, commonly known as blue mustard, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chorispora tenella edible?
A: No, it is not commonly consumed and its edibility is not well-documented.
Q: How does Chorispora tenella spread?
A: It spreads via seeds, often becoming a persistent weed in disturbed soils.
Q: Does Chorispora tenella attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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