Crested restharrow
ononis cristata
Also known as: ["Cristata restharrow"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by its creeping stems and small, pinkish-white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Ononis |
| Botanical Name: | Ononis cristata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning as needed; heavy pruning annually in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate. Avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues in humid conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing near reflective surfaces that intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; use raised beds in heavy soils; avoid over-amending with peat in hot climates.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid (60–70%), and bright indirect light with some shade.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent potting soil.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools. Cut just above a leaf node or bud. Remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased growth. Light pruning can be done anytime; heavy pruning in late winter/early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; inspect roots; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues. Allow excess water to drain away completely.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil dryness.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or compost to improve drainage and aeration. Ensure organic matter is well-decomposed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop during extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in severe frost.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., mulch, row covers) in cold climates. Move potted plants indoors during freezes.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering, and use mulch to retain soil moisture during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume the seeds of Ononis cristata. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should be avoided.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe seeds of Ononis cristata can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs if ingested. The effects are typically not severe but can lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicOnonis cristata contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ononis cristata suitable for beginners?
A: No, it requires moderate care and is better suited for enthusiasts.
Q: Does Ononis cristata attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Ononis cristata toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown; caution is advised.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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