Richweed, Horse-mint
collinsonia canadensis
Also known as: ["Richweed","Horse-mint"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to eastern North America, known for its aromatic foliage and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","fragrant flowers"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Collinsonia |
| Botanical Name: | Collinsonia canadensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed in partial shade
- 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: Moderately well-draining to well-draining.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy, well-draining soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of old or weak stems.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; 4–6 hours of morning sunlight or dappled light is ideal.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to sunlight changes; protect from intense afternoon sun; prefers shaded outdoor spots or indirect indoor light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid direct afternoon sun; provide dappled light; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Maintain consistent moisture, avoid waterlogging, and ensure good drainage.
Soil
rich, moist, well-drained loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good aeration; avoid compacted soil; enrich with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); tolerates cooler nights.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; maintain moderate temps.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize less in winter; use balanced formula; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply rooting hormone if using, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–70°F).
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but can help with rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–6 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, propagation medium, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back to just above a leaf node or bud, using clean, sharp tools.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to encourage healthy new shoots and maintain shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilized knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, make clean cuts, dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
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 root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, add fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, avoiding wetting the foliage, and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
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 peat moss for fertility and structure; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; yellowing or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot.
Solution: Provide insulation, move to a warmer spot, and reduce watering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season, dilute fertilizer, apply to soil, avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCollinsonia canadensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to felines when ingested, though large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicCollinsonia canadensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant is not known to cause significant adverse effects when ingested by canines, though large quantities might cause mild gastrointestinal irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Non-toxicCollinsonia canadensis, commonly known as horseweed or richweed, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, excessive consumption may lead to mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant effects on the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Collinsonia canadensis safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Collinsonia canadensis?
A: It has been traditionally used to treat varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and respiratory issues.
Q: Does Collinsonia canadensis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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