Fuzzy sowthistle

modiola caroliniana

Also known as: ["Carolina mallow","velvetleaf mallow"]

Family: Malvaceae Genus: Modiola Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small, annual herbaceous plant with fuzzy leaves and pale pink or white flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Modiola
Botanical Name: Modiola caroliniana

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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 some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak heat; monitor for sunburn.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering; adjust based on season and weather.

Soil

well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.

Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; maintain consistent moisture.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures, 65–85°F (18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.

Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from extreme fluctuations.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Apply fertilizer after watering; stop in dormant periods; use a balanced formula.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a cutting.
  2. Apply rooting hormone (optional).
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. 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, such as a mix of peat and perlite.

Hormone

Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.

Tools

Pruning shears, clean scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the container; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water until it drains from the bottom, but avoid waterlogging.

Pro Tip: Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water moderately, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid sudden temperature drops.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, and water more frequently during heatwaves.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Modiola caroliniana may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Modiola caroliniana can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Modiola caroliniana may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if severe.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Modiola caroliniana due to excessive moisture or fungal pathogens, compromising the plant's structural integrity and ability to absorb water and nutrients.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Modiola caroliniana is not known to be toxic to cats. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Modiola caroliniana is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks if ingested or handled.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Modiola caroliniana is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Modiola caroliniana a weed?

A: Yes, it is commonly considered a weed due to its rapid growth and tendency to spread in cultivated areas.

Q: Does Modiola caroliniana attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its flowers.

Q: How easy is it to grow Modiola caroliniana?

A: It is very easy to grow, requiring minimal care and thriving in various conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Malvaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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