Purple Teasel
sixalix atropurpurea
Also known as: ["Purple Teasel","Atropurpurea Scabiosa"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with striking purple flowers and spiky seed heads, native to Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Sixalix |
| Botanical Name: | Sixalix atropurpurea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- 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 perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from intense midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter strong light; avoid placing near west-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid extreme heat or cold.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring/summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape as needed for aesthetic or health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +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; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once 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 organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf discoloration, and may lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafty areas; reduce watering in cold.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to water stress.
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 moist soil; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSixalix atropurpurea is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSixalix atropurpurea is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSixalix atropurpurea is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Sixalix atropurpurea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is highly attractive to bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is this plant toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How difficult is it to care for?
A: It requires moderate care, suitable for beginners with some gardening experience.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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