Spiraea-leaved Inula
inula spiraeifolia
Also known as: ["Spiraea-leaved Inula"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with daisy-like flowers, native to parts of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Inula |
| Botanical Name: | Inula spiraeifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- 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":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderate to fast-draining; avoid heavy clay soils that retain excess water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent leaf scorch; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid waterlogged soil; amend heavy soils with grit; test pH periodically for optimal growth.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, stable conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from drafts; maintain consistent humidity in dry, hot conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn to allow dormancy; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; 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.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to 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; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above leaf nodes; remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on post-flowering for reblooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure drainage holes are present.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency based on season.
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 fungal growth; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels 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; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in extreme heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root rot.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; provide frost cloth protection for outdoor plants; ensure good drainage to prevent cold-induced root issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; rapid water loss may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture and cool roots.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may exhibit mild gastrointestinal distress after ingesting Inula spiraeifolia. The plant's sesquiterpene lactones can cause irritation in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Inula spiraeifolia. The plant's compounds can cause irritation to the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicInula spiraeifolia contains sesquiterpene lactones which can cause mild gastrointestinal irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Inula spiraeifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Inula spiraeifolia?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Inula spiraeifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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