Hedgehyssop
gratiola officinalis
Also known as: ["Marsh Hedgehyssop","Rat's Tail"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with small, pale pink or white flowers, historically used in traditional medicine but known to be toxic.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Genus: | Gratiola |
| Botanical Name: | Gratiola officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist garden beds or containers with consistent moisture
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, fertile, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure soil is loose and crumbly; test pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter promote dormancy.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
- Monitor for roots.
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 with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of stems; pinch back tips to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overcrowded stems to improve air circulation and shape; encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape 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 plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; improves growth and prevents congestion.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or peat moss for fertility; mix perlite for drainage; ensure aeration with coarse sand.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause root damage in temperatures below 50°F (10°C); vulnerable to frost.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover; move indoors in cold climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or wilt in prolonged heat above 85°F (29°C); growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; 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 growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicGratiola officinalis is toxic to cats, with ingestion causing significant health risks, particularly to the liver and kidneys. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids present in the plant can lead to severe organ damage and failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicGratiola officinalis is toxic to dogs, with ingestion leading to severe health issues, particularly affecting the liver and kidneys. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids in the plant can cause cumulative toxicity, leading to organ failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicGratiola officinalis is highly toxic to humans, containing compounds that can cause severe physiological effects, including liver and kidney damage. The plant's toxicity is due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which are known hepatotoxicants.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gratiola officinalis safe for human consumption?
A: No, Gratiola officinalis is toxic to humans and should not be consumed.
Q: Does Gratiola officinalis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: What are the common problems with growing Gratiola officinalis?
A: Common issues include yellow leaves and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plantaginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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