Lachenal's water dropwort
oenanthe lachenalii
Also known as: ["Lachenal's water dropwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to wetlands and damp habitats, characterized by its finely divided leaves and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Oenanthe |
| Botanical Name: | Oenanthe lachenalii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: moist meadows, stream banks, or partially shaded garden beds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°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, sandy loam with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- 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 (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates light shade in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
moist, well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, sand, and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged freezing.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
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 before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during freezes; ensure good soil drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive heat and water loss.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicCats are highly susceptible to the toxic effects of Oenanthe lachenalii due to their sensitivity to furanocoumarins and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal upset and potential organ failure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicIngestion of Oenanthe lachenalii by dogs can lead to significant toxicity due to the presence of furanocoumarins and pyrrolizidine alkaloids. These compounds can cause severe gastrointestinal distress and organ damage, particularly in the liver.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicOenanthe lachenalii contains toxic compounds, including furanocoumarins and pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause severe physiological effects upon ingestion. These compounds interfere with cellular processes, leading to organ damage, particularly affecting the liver and kidneys.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oenanthe lachenalii toxic to humans?
A: The toxicity of Oenanthe lachenalii to humans is unknown.
Q: What are the common problems with Oenanthe lachenalii?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves and wilting.
Q: Is Oenanthe lachenalii suitable for beginners?
A: It is not typically recommended for beginners due to its moderate care difficulty.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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