Whole-leaved flax-leaved groundsel
tephroseris integrifolia
Also known as: ["Flax-leaved groundsel","Whole-leaved groundsel"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with daisy-like yellow flowers and lance-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Tephroseris |
| Botanical Name: | Tephroseris integrifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F); thrives in cooler climates; protect from extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–4 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged parts.
Tools
Clean pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter 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 growth and health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; 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; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold; vulnerable to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may stall in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTephroseris integrifolia is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known compounds harmful to felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTephroseris integrifolia is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known compounds harmful to canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTephroseris integrifolia is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Tephroseris integrifolia attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its daisy-like flowers.
Q: Is Tephroseris integrifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets; it is recommended to keep pets away from the plant.
Q: How should Tephroseris integrifolia be cared for?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil, partial shade, and regular watering during dry periods.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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