Canary Islands Sowthistle
sonchus canariensis
Also known as: ["Canary sowthistle","Island sowthistle"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant native to the Canary Islands, characterized by its dandelion-like leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Sonchus |
| Botanical Name: | Sonchus canariensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a warm, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter like compost or peat moss.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Every 2–3 months or as needed to control size and shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth at a time to avoid shock.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct sun but acclimate gradually to avoid scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants to direct sun slowly over weeks, protect from intense midday sun, adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; move outdoors in spring/summer for stronger light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry between waterings, avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of cactus soil and regular potting mix; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure below 50°F (10°C) or above 85°F (29°C).
Avoid sudden temperature changes; use a thermometer to monitor; group plants to create microclimates.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; apply fertilizer to moist soil to avoid root burn; stop fertilizing in fall/winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting, remove lower leaves, dip in hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may appear in 2–4 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags (for humidity).
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness, cut just above a leaf node or bud, remove leggy or yellowing stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead/damaged parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors, disinfectant (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune during active growth, remove dead/diseased parts, shape evenly, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly, avoid fertilizing for a month.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Choose right pot size, prepare fresh soil, trim roots if needed, water lightly, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid leaf wetting, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains freely from the pot, ensure even moisture without waterlogging, 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 coarse sand for drainage, incorporate compost for fertility, ensure aeration with chunky materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), bud drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; prolonged cold can lead to root damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots, avoid drafts, reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growing season, dilute fertilizer, apply to moist soil, flush periodically, cease in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid 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 upset if they ingest Sonchus canariensis. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Sonchus canariensis may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but consumption in large amounts could cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicSonchus canariensis contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's sap may also cause skin irritation upon contact. The physiological impact is generally limited to mild discomfort and irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sonchus canariensis edible?
A: While some species in the Sonchus genus are edible, specific information on S. canariensis is limited, and caution is advised.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees and butterflies due to its flowering nature.
Q: Is it invasive?
A: It can be considered a weed in some regions, potentially spreading if not managed.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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