Nine-leaved Sarcocapnos
sarcocapnos enneaphylla
Also known as: ["Nine-leaved Sarcocapnos"]
Overview
A rare, climbing or trailing plant native to North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula, known for its unusual foliage and delicate flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Sarcocapnos |
| Botanical Name: | Sarcocapnos enneaphylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden, alpine trough, or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
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 necessary.
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 if moving from low light; protect from intense midday sun; place near east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light; use sheer curtains to filter strong sun; avoid dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or rocky soil with low organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with grit for surface drainage.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoid freezing.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to half strength; fertilize only when actively growing; stop in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with bright indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may form in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; use sterile tools.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
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 during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Sarcocapnos prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without saturation. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; dark, mushy roots in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root rot if soil remains wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; ensure soil is dry; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, dehydration, and wilting.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water carefully to avoid overheating roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted cactus fertilizer every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSarcocapnos enneaphylla is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSarcocapnos enneaphylla is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSarcocapnos enneaphylla is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has no reported adverse physiological impacts when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sarcocapnos enneaphylla easy to grow?
A: It has moderate care difficulty and requires specific conditions to thrive.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: Toxicity data is unknown; it is best to keep pets away from this plant.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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