Naked-stemmed Teesdalia
teesdalia nudicaulis
Also known as: ["Naked-stemmed whitlowgrass","Early whitlowgrass"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with white, four-petaled flowers and a rosette of basal leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Teesdalia |
| Botanical Name: | Teesdalia nudicaulis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or open meadows
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on shaping and removing weak growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to full sun to prevent scorching. In hot climates, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–75°F or 10–24°C). Tolerates mild frost but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings root easily in warm conditions.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- 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), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; mature plants in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or leggy stems to maintain compact growth and encourage bushiness.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early morning; remove dead/damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted, typically every 2–3 years.
Checklist
Check for root-bound signs; use fresh soil mix; ensure pot has drainage; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early morning; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without saturating the soil. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if prolonged below freezing.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during freezes; ensure good air circulation to prevent mold.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase before fertilizing; dilute fertilizer correctly; water before applying; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTeesdalia nudicaulis is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTeesdalia nudicaulis is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTeesdalia nudicaulis is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Teesdalia nudicaulis toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much care?
A: No, it is very low maintenance and easy to grow.
Q: Does Teesdalia nudicaulis attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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