Grass-leaved Scabious
lomelosia graminifolia
Also known as: ["Grass-leaved Scabious"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with narrow, grass-like leaves and small, pale flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Dipsacales |
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Genus: | Lomelosia |
| Botanical Name: | Lomelosia graminifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to direct morning sun in cooler months.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Gradually acclimate to direct sun to prevent scorching; provide shade during intense afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates a range of 50–85°F (10–29°C); prefers cooler nights in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape as needed for aesthetic or health.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
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; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing or browning leaf edges.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLomelosia graminifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicLomelosia graminifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicLomelosia graminifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It has no reported adverse effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lomelosia graminifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Lomelosia graminifolia?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Lomelosia graminifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Caprifoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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