Enchanter's-nightshade
circaea alpina
Also known as: ["Alpine Enchanter's-nightshade","Fairy's-thimble"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous perennial plant native to temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, known for its delicate white or pinkish flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Circaea |
| Botanical Name: | Circaea alpina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity
- Drainage: Well-draining to fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 2–4 hours of morning sunlight or bright indirect light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to sunlight changes; avoid direct afternoon sun to prevent scorching; place in a shaded area for indoor cultivation.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Morning sun is best; avoid harsh afternoon light; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, humus-rich, well-drained soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Use a mix of loam, peat, and perlite; ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions but not frost.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize in the morning; stop during dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide the plant.
- Prepare the medium.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant and water gently.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and temperatures around 60–70°F (15–21°C).
Medium
Peat-based potting mix with perlite for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment can take 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, peat-based mix, perlite.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or weak stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose the right pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss to improve fertility and structure; ensure good drainage with perlite or sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Circaea alpina. The plant is not highly toxic, but ingestion should be prevented to avoid potential discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Circaea alpina can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCircaea alpina contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not life-threatening but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Circaea alpina toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does Circaea alpina require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade.
Q: How tall does Circaea alpina grow?
A: It typically grows to about 10–30 cm in height.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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