Heartleaf Keckiella
keckiella cordifolia
Also known as: []
Overview
A woody subshrub native to California, known for its heart-shaped leaves and tubular, red flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Keckiella |
| Botanical Name: | Keckiella cordifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or slope with good drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic to neutral soil mix, such as cactus or succulent potting mix with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually, after flowering, or as needed to remove dead growth.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates. Adjust exposure based on seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching. Place in filtered light during peak summer hours. Indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid direct afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry between waterings, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, rocky or sandy soil
pH: 6.0–7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates brief dips to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a slow-release fertilizer for sustained nutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method. Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two leaf nodes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing but not under stress.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may appear after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools to make angled cuts just above leaf nodes or buds.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems. Prune after flowering to promote new blooms.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged stems; shape plant; clean up debris; apply fungicide if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the container. Repot if soil becomes compacted or drainage is poor.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; use fresh soil; water sparingly post-repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage. Incorporate compost for organic matter and fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), wilting, bud drop, or stunted growth indicate temperature stress.
Cold Stress
Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can slow growth, cause leaf drop, and increase susceptibility to pests.
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 above 90°F (32°C) can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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 that consume Keckiella cordifolia berries may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The berries contain compounds that can irritate the stomach and intestines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Keckiella cordifolia berries can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The toxins in the berries may cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicKeckiella cordifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The berries are the primary toxic part, containing irritants that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the ideal growing environment for Keckiella cordifolia?
A: It thrives in full sun to partial shade with well-drained, rocky soil and is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Keckiella cordifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its tubular flowers are particularly attractive to hummingbirds and bees.
Q: How often should Keckiella cordifolia be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings, especially in cooler months.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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