Winged Orache
dysphania botrys
Also known as: ["Botrys","Winged Goosefoot","Summer Purslane"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant with delicate, winged stems and small, greenish flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Dysphania |
| Botanical Name: | Dysphania botrys |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container on a patio
- 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 to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun if moving from shade. Protect from intense midday sun to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; adjust light exposure seasonally.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil, perlite, and compost; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates cooler temperatures down to 50°F (10°C) but thrives in warmth.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Always water before fertilizing to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or perlite and peat moss mix.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; keep out of direct sun until established.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or leggy stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, or your fingers for small stems.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or damaged stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot (e.g., +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 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution. Water deeply to encourage root growth, but ensure excess drains away to prevent waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth (spring/summer), allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall/winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in cold stress; wilting or scorched leaf edges in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop. Prolonged cold may lead to fungal infections.
Solution: Move plant away from drafty windows or doors; provide a heat source if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or dehydration, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure consistent watering without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid dormant periods; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume Dysphania botrys. The plant's irritant properties can cause digestive discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Dysphania botrys can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's compounds may irritate the stomach lining, causing discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicDysphania botrys 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 Dysphania botrys edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: Does Dysphania botrys attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its small flowers.
Q: How often should I water Dysphania botrys?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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