Brickel-bush, Yellow Sow-thistle
picris echioides
Also known as: ["Brickel-bush","Yellow Sow-thistle"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with yellow flowers, often found in disturbed areas and meadows.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Picris |
| Botanical Name: | Picris echioides |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: moderate
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months during the growing season; deadheading flowers as they fade.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer flowers.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. For indoor placement, provide the brightest possible light; outdoor plants thrive in open, sunny locations.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid waterlogging.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes; test soil pH annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in prolonged heat.
Avoid placing near heat sources; protect from harsh winter winds; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing when the plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain even moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut spent flower stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune in early morning; remove dead or damaged growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose a clean pot; use fresh, well-draining soil; water after repotting; avoid fertilizing for a month.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water early in the day; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone without wetting foliage. Water until it drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
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
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or flower bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration, but the plant is generally hardy to light frosts.
Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; mulch around the base to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade, increase watering frequency, and use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season. Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPicris echioides is generally considered non-toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with incidental ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Dogs
Non-toxicPicris echioides is generally considered non-toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with incidental ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Humans
Slightly ToxicPicris echioides contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant amounts. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but overconsumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Picris echioides toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to dogs and cats.
Q: How does Picris echioides grow?
A: It is a hardy plant that thrives in disturbed soils and meadows, requiring minimal care.
Q: Does Picris echioides attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds, making it beneficial for wildlife gardens.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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