Indigo Pluchea
pluchea indica
Also known as: ["Indigo Pluchea","Indigo Daisy"]
Overview
A flowering plant species in the family Asteraceae, native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Pluchea |
| Botanical Name: | Pluchea indica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in tropical or subtropical regions, or as a potted plant in a warm, sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or coarse sand; can also use a cactus or succulent mix with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; major pruning after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size or shape.
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 the plant gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; for indoor placement, rotate the plant weekly for even light exposure.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for balanced growth; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, avoid letting the plant sit in water, and adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain slightly acidic pH.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in tropical conditions with high humidity.
Protect from cold drafts; maintain consistent warmth; increase humidity in hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also be propagated from seeds in tropical conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain temperatures around 70–80°F (21–27°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for added aeration.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; keep out of direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; also prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any dead roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; also repot if the soil has degraded or drainage is poor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution without wetting foliage; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring-summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in fall-winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility; ensure proper aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves, wilting, or stunted growth in cold conditions; leaf scorch or drooping in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop; prolonged cold may lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move the plant to a warmer location; protect from drafts; use a heat mat if necessary during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; ensure adequate watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPluchea indica is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with incidental ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicPluchea indica is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with incidental ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
not typically toxic
Humans
Slightly ToxicPluchea indica, commonly known as Indian Scented Weed, contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when consumed in significant amounts. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Pluchea indica toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Pluchea indica be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Pluchea indica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
