Jesuit's Bark
scopolia carniolica
Also known as: ["Bog Rosemary","False Belladonna"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to Central and Southeastern Europe, known for its toxic alkaloids and bell-shaped flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","rare/collector’s item"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Solanales |
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Genus: | Scopolia |
| Botanical Name: | Scopolia carniolica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: partial shade garden bed or container
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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; can use a cactus or succulent mix amended with compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 4–6 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light; place in a spot with filtered light; move to a shadier location during peak summer.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
partial shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust light in winter.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures (50–65°F); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Keep away from drafts; maintain cool conditions; monitor for signs of stress.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%); warm temperatures (65–75°F); indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth may take several months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove dead or weak stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or diseased growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased growth; shape the plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; may need repotting if growth slows.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust seasonally.
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 deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; yellowing or browning leaves in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback if temperatures drop below 40°F.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or drop; growth may stall in temperatures above 75°F.
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 spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicScopolia carniolica is toxic to cats due to its tropane alkaloid content, which disrupts the nervous system and other bodily functions. Cats are particularly sensitive to these compounds, and even small amounts can lead to severe poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicThe tropane alkaloids in Scopolia carniolica are highly toxic to dogs, causing significant anticholinergic effects. These substances disrupt normal neurotransmitter function, leading to severe neurological and physiological disturbances that can be fatal if not treated promptly.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicScopolia carniolica contains tropane alkaloids, primarily scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which act as potent anticholinergics. These compounds interfere with the parasympathetic nervous system, leading to a range of physiological disruptions, including central nervous system depression or stimulation, depending on the dose. The effects can be severe and potentially life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scopolia carniolica safe to grow around pets?
A: No, it is highly toxic to dogs and cats and should be kept away from pets.
Q: What are the medicinal uses of Scopolia carniolica?
A: It has been historically used for its anticholinergic properties, though modern use is limited due to toxicity.
Q: How difficult is Scopolia carniolica to grow?
A: It is challenging to grow, requiring specific soil and light conditions, and is not recommended for beginners.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Solanaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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