Small Honeywort
cerinthe minor
Also known as: ["Small Honeywort","Minor Honeywort"]
Overview
A small annual or short-lived perennial plant with distinctive blue-green leaves and small, yellowish flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cerinthe |
| Botanical Name: | Cerinthe minor |
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":"8–11"}
- 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: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct or bright indirect light daily.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant 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 thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in cool conditions.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but not extreme cold.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone (optional), plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, clean up debris, monitor for new growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if crowded, place in slightly larger 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
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, handle roots carefully, water after repotting, place in suitable light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing or browning of leaves.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C) for extended periods.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in temperatures above 85°F (29°C).
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact, monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCerinthe minor is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCerinthe minor is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCerinthe minor is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Cerinthe minor attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Cerinthe minor suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is an easy-to-grow plant with low maintenance requirements.
Q: What are the typical issues with growing Cerinthe minor?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves and wilting, often due to overwatering or poor drainage.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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