Costa Rican Skullcap
scutellaria costaricana
Also known as: ["Costa Rican Skullcap"]
Overview
A species of flowering plant in the mint family, native to Costa Rica.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Scutellaria |
| Botanical Name: | Scutellaria costaricana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or indoor pot with indirect light
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"10–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days if humidity is below 50%
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2 years; after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to dappled light in intense summer sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from direct midday sun; place in east-facing windows indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains in summer; avoid direct afternoon sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers 65–75°F (18–24°C); tolerates 50–85°F (10–29°C); avoid sudden temperature swings.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain stable temperatures; use a thermometer to monitor.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in water or moist soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Place in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for drainage.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips; cut just above a leaf node; thin out crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Remove leggy growth to encourage bushier form; prune after flowering to maintain shape.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter; avoid oversized pots.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil mix; ensure drainage holes are clear.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; refresh soil to maintain vigor.
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 thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when 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 organic matter for fertility; use cactus mix as base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing, wilting, or dropping; stunted growth; bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or curling; reduced flowering; increased water demand.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently; use shade cloth outdoors.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; rinse pot periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScutellaria costaricana is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScutellaria costaricana is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce any known harmful compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScutellaria costaricana is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scutellaria costaricana toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Scutellaria costaricana?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Scutellaria costaricana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it can attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowering nature.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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