pellitory-of-the-wall
parietaria judaica
Also known as: ["wall pellitory","spider plant","pellitory"]
Overview
A low-growing, herbaceous plant with small, green leaves and inconspicuous flowers, commonly found in cracks of walls and rocky areas.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Urticales |
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Genus: | Parietaria |
| Botanical Name: | Parietaria judaica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, dry slopes, or as a ground cover in sunny areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: high
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light or partial shade; tolerates full sun in cooler climates but prefers filtered light in hot regions.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light intensity.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid direct afternoon sun; rotate plant for even growth; provide dappled shade in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Adaptable, thriving in 60–85°F (15–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but prefers moderate temperatures.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; protect from drafts; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
rarely needed, apply a balanced liquid fertilizer every 2–3 months if desired
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks
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 humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to encourage branching
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning to maintain shape and remove dead or leggy growth; encourages bushier 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
Spring, before the active growth period
Pot Size
One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes
Method
Remove plant gently; 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 root condition; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water sparingly 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 directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in hard freezes; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure well-drained soil; move indoors or to a sheltered location in freezing conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping in intense heat; reduced vigor if not watered adequately.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble 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-toxicParietaria judaica is generally considered non-toxic to cats. While ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some cases, it is not considered a significant toxic threat to felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicParietaria judaica is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. While ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some cases, it is not considered a significant toxic threat to canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicParietaria judaica, commonly known as pellitory or wall pellitory, is primarily an allergenic plant rather than a toxic one. It contains allergenic compounds that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. The plant is not known to be toxic if ingested, but contact with the plant can lead to dermatitis in susceptible people.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if touched
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Parietaria judaica toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Why is this plant considered a weed?
A: It spreads easily in disturbed areas and can become invasive in gardens.
Q: Does Parietaria judaica have any medicinal uses?
A: Historically, it has been used in folk medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties, but modern use is limited due to allergenicity.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Urticaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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