Slender fumitory
fumaria vaillantii
Also known as: ["Slender fumitory","Fumaria vaillantii"]
Overview
A delicate annual herbaceous plant with finely divided leaves and small pinkish flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria vaillantii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; place in a spot with filtered light; move to a shadier location during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); can tolerate cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; keep away from heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged stems; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf drop; prolonged exposure can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid watering excessively in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to liver toxicity from pyrrolizidine alkaloids found in Fumaria vaillantii. Chronic exposure may lead to severe liver damage.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Fumaria vaillantii seeds and roots can lead to mild to moderate gastrointestinal upset and potential liver toxicity due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumaria vaillantii contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which can cause liver damage upon chronic ingestion. The physiological impact is primarily hepatotoxic, leading to cumulative liver injury over time.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria vaillantii toxic to pets?
A: Reliable information on toxicity to pets is not available.
Q: How easy is it to grow Fumaria vaillantii?
A: It is very easy to grow, requiring minimal care.
Q: Does Fumaria vaillantii attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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