Field Cudweed
filago arvensis
Also known as: ["Field Cudweed","Field Cottonrose"]
Overview
A small annual herbaceous plant with woolly, white flowers and narrow leaves, typically found in arable fields and disturbed ground.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Filago |
| Botanical Name: | Filago arvensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny area
- 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, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- 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:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent mildew.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sunlight; avoid placing near large windows with direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); can tolerate cooler nights but avoid frost.
Avoid placing near drafty windows or heating vents; maintain stable temperatures; adjust watering in extreme heat or cold.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., perlite and peat moss mix).
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; trim leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Sharp, clean scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/diseased parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
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 outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings; 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, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop or leaf drop in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a protective cover in frost; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted; increased susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent but not excessive watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicFilago arvensis is not toxic to cats. The plant does not produce any known toxins that would negatively affect felines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicFilago arvensis is not toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known substances that would cause harm to canines upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicFilago arvensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Filago arvensis toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Filago arvensis grow?
A: It is an annual plant that thrives in disturbed soil and arable fields, often spreading via seeds.
Q: Does Filago arvensis require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and highly tolerant of harsh conditions.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
