Eyebright
euphrasia nemorosa
Also known as: ["Red Eyebright","Red Eyebright Herb"]
Overview
A small annual herbaceous plant known for its small white or purplish flowers and traditional use in herbal medicine for eye ailments.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Euphrasia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphrasia nemorosa |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded rock garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: low
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent scorching; place in filtered light outdoors or near an east-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid intense afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light based on season.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; maintain slightly acidic conditions.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); tolerates cooler conditions down to 50°F (10°C).
Keep away from heat sources; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only during growing season; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
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.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (65–75°F or 18–24°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim leggy stems to promote compact growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
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.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution without saturating the soil; allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when 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; adjust pH with peat moss if needed.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in temperatures above 80°F (27°C), especially with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEuphrasia nemorosa is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines, and ingestion is not expected to cause significant health issues.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEuphrasia nemorosa is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion is unlikely to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEuphrasia nemorosa is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used in traditional medicine for its mild therapeutic properties, particularly as an eyewash or in herbal preparations. There are no significant toxic effects reported from ingestion or topical application.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphrasia nemorosa toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How is Eyebright traditionally used?
A: It has been used in herbal medicine, particularly for treating eye irritations.
Q: What are the growing conditions for Euphrasia nemorosa?
A: It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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