Pale Honeywort
cerinthe glabra
Also known as: ["Pale Honeywort","Smooth Honeywort"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual or biennial plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its distinctive blue-green foliage and small, pale yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Cerinthe |
| Botanical Name: | Cerinthe glabra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings, rock gardens, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring 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 midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, 50–75°F (10–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering; use a balanced formula; reduce frequency in cooler months.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or diseased growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; water sparingly 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 at the base of the plant, ensuring 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 perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 40°F (4°C).
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; provide frost protection; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in temperatures above 85°F (29°C); growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume parts of Cerinthe glabra, particularly the seeds or roots. The alkaloids can cause irritation similar to that in humans and dogs.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Cerinthe glabra seeds or roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The alkaloids present can cause irritation to the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCerinthe glabra contains alkaloids that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and other systemic effects if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Cerinthe glabra?
A: Propagate by seed, sowing directly into the garden after the last frost.
Q: Does Cerinthe glabra attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees and butterflies.
Q: What are the ideal growing conditions for Cerinthe glabra?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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