Scottish gooseberry, strawberry blite
blitum capitatum
Also known as: ["strawberry blite","scarlet gooseberry"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant native to North America, known for its edible, bright red berries and attractive foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Blitum |
| Botanical Name: | Blitum capitatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Fruits
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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; can tolerate sandy or clay soils if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; remove spent flowers or damaged leaves throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Light; selective removal of only dead or problematic parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot regions; ensure adequate airflow to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is loose and crumbly; avoid compacted soil; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler nights.
Monitor nighttime temperatures; adjust watering based on heat; protect from sudden temperature drops.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; use organic options like compost tea for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Seed or stem cuttings; seeds are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Sow seeds shallowly or take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when temperatures are mild and growth is active.
Environment
Warm (65–75°F or 18–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining seed starting mix or a mix of peat and perlite.
Hormone
Not typically required for seeds; rooting hormone can aid stem cuttings.
Timeline
Seeds germinate in 1–3 weeks; stem cuttings root in 2–4 weeks and establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Seed trays, pots, rooting hormone (optional), misting bottle, heat mat (optional).
Quick Tips
Use bottom heat for faster germination; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; thin seedlings as needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base; pinch back stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or diseased parts; avoid over-pruning; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot only when roots fill the container or growth slows; typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; use mulch to retain moisture.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in cold spells; move potted plants indoors; avoid planting in frost-prone areas.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, flower abortion, and reduced vigor; may bolt prematurely.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBlitum capitatum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicBlitum capitatum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicBlitum capitatum, also known as scarlet goosefoot or strawberry blite, is not considered toxic to humans. It has been historically used as a food source and is generally safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Blitum capitatum safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the uses of Blitum capitatum?
A: The plant is primarily grown for its edible berries, which can be eaten raw or cooked.
Q: How easy is it to grow Blitum capitatum?
A: It is an easy plant to grow, requiring minimal maintenance once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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