False Salsify
hypochaeris achyrophorus
Also known as: ["False Salsify","Achyrophorus"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant in the daisy family, known for its dandelion-like flowers and edible roots.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Hypochaeris |
| Botanical Name: | Hypochaeris achyrophorus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens 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. A cactus or succulent mix amended with compost works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; deadheading spent flowers is recommended after blooming.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, depending on desired shape and health of the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. For indoor plants, place near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during peak summer heat; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral, pH 6.0–7.0.
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only during active growth; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, loose soil for division.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates for stem cuttings.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can establish more quickly if done carefully.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain humidity until roots form.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back growing tips or snip off spent flower stalks just above a leaf node or healthy bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any dead roots, place in a new pot with fresh soil, and water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This helps refresh soil and provides space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; position plant correctly; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in fall and winter to prevent root rot. Allow the top inch of soil to dry between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility and structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf discoloration or damage, especially if prolonged below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells. Apply a layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering, especially if combined with drought stress.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation to mitigate heat stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth stage; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves; stop in dormant season.
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
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver damage from the pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Hypochaeris achyrophorus. Chronic ingestion can lead to severe hepatotoxicity, though acute poisoning is uncommon.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe pyrrolizidine alkaloids in Hypochaeris achyrophorus can cause liver damage in dogs if ingested regularly. Acute poisoning is rare, but chronic exposure may lead to serious health issues.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicHypochaeris achyrophorus contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The plant's effects are generally mild but can accumulate over time, leading to hepatotoxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hypochaeris achyrophorus edible?
A: Yes, the roots are edible and can be cooked like salsify.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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