Hop Bush

barleria lupulina

Also known as: ["Golden Hop Bush","Hops Bush"]

Family: Acanthaceae Genus: Barleria Category: Shrubs

Overview

A shrubby plant with bright yellow flowers, native to tropical and subtropical regions.

Benefits & Perks

["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Acanthaceae
Genus: Barleria
Botanical Name: Barleria lupulina

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Shrubs
  • Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in warm, sunny area
  • Suitable For:
    Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; heavy pruning annually in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid shaded corners.

Watering

every 7–10 days during growing season, reduce in winter

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.

Temperature

Thrives in warm conditions, 65–85°F (18–29°C); prefers stable temperatures; sensitive to cold drafts.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during active growth

Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; switch to low-nitrogen formula if foliage grows excessively.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in moist medium.
  5. Keep humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C).

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

Hormone

Rooting hormone is recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, 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

Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut back stems to encourage branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.

Tools

Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to target the root zone precisely.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Yellowing leaves, wilting, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn brown or drop; risk of frost damage below 50°F (10°C).

Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a space heater if needed; insulate pots in cold weather.

Hot Stress

Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in excessive heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; stop in winter.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Barleria lupulina may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting the plant's photosynthetic efficiency and overall health.

Wilting in Barleria lupulina can be caused by water stress, either due to under or overwatering, or root damage, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Barleria lupulina may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic area and potential defoliation if left untreated.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Barleria lupulina is often associated with excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to decay of plant tissues and potential death of the plant.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest Barleria lupulina. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep Barleria lupulina away from cats. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs and symptoms develop.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Barleria lupulina can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor dogs closely if they have ingested Barleria lupulina. Consult a veterinarian if symptoms persist.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Barleria lupulina contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can lead to discomfort.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea stomach discomfort diarrhea
🌿 Toxic Parts:
leaves flowers
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of Barleria lupulina. Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Barleria lupulina toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should Barleria lupulina be watered?

A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Q: Does Barleria lupulina attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Quick Reference
Family: Acanthaceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during growi
Suitable For: ["outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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