Prostrate Daphne

fumana procumbens

Also known as: ["Prostrate Daphne","Procumbent Fumana"]

Family: Cistaceae Genus: Fumana Category: Shrubs

Overview

A low-growing, spreading shrub with small, linear leaves and yellow flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.

Benefits & Perks

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

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Malvales
Family: Cistaceae
Genus: Fumana
Botanical Name: Fumana procumbens

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or dry slopes
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: high
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in intense summer heat.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Full sun lover; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or rocky soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure fast drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); hardy to mild frosts but sensitive to prolonged cold.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; adjust watering with temperature.

Fertilizing

every 2–3 months during spring and summer

Use low-nitrogen fertilizer; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
  2. Let it callus for a day.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting mix.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 1–2 months.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use sterile tools; keep medium lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape the plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and drainage.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce winter watering.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the roots, avoiding foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf drop in excessive heat.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf drop, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced evaporation.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; ensure soil dries quickly.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive water loss.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering cautiously; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

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

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Fumana procumbens may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or underlying disease, though specific causes are not well-documented for this species.

Wilting in Fumana procumbens can result from water stress, root damage, or pest infestations, potentially leading to reduced photosynthesis and plant vigor.

Leaf spots in Fumana procumbens may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Fumana procumbens is often associated with excessive moisture or fungal infections, which can lead to plant decline and death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Fumana procumbens. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause mild symptoms.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from eating the plant; seek veterinary advice if ingestion is suspected.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Fumana procumbens may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets from consuming the plant; consult a veterinarian if ingestion occurs.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Fumana procumbens contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort skin rash
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves stems flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion and minimize skin contact, especially for individuals with sensitive skin.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Fumana procumbens suitable for rock gardens?

A: Yes, it is well-suited for rock gardens due to its low-growing habit and drought tolerance.

Q: Does Fumana procumbens require frequent watering?

A: No, it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil with minimal watering.

Q: Does Fumana procumbens attract wildlife?

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

Quick Reference
Family: Cistaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun
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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