Eyebright

euphrasia stricta

Also known as: ["Euphrasia rostkoviana","Eyebright"]

Family: Orobanchaceae Genus: Euphrasia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A small annual herbaceous plant known for its use in traditional medicine, particularly for eye-related ailments.

Benefits & Perks

["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Orobanchaceae
Genus: Euphrasia
Botanical Name: Euphrasia stricta

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, meadows, or containers in partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: After flowering or every 2–3 months as needed.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves (overwatering or poor drainage), stunted growth (nutrient deficiency), or mold on soil surface (poor aeration).

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near hot windows.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content

pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically.

Temperature

Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–70°F or 15–21°C); tolerates cooler nights.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter

Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of clumps.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional, but can help speed up rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.

Quick Tips

Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove spent flowers to promote reblooming.

Tools

Clean 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 growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot); ensure good drainage.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without disturbing the soil surface.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and can cause root damage in prolonged cold; may enter dormancy.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots with bubble wrap; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow significantly.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Euphrasia stricta can indicate nutrient deficiencies, particularly nitrogen, or may be a response to environmental stress such as excessive sunlight or waterlogging.

Wilting in Euphrasia stricta is typically a sign of water stress, either due to insufficient watering or root damage that impairs water uptake.

Leaf spots on Euphrasia stricta may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, often exacerbated by high humidity or poor air circulation, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf loss.

Rotting, particularly root rot, in Euphrasia stricta is often caused by overwatering or poorly drained soil, leading to fungal infections that degrade root tissues.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Euphrasia stricta is not considered toxic to cats. The plant has no known adverse effects on feline health when ingested.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive ingestion should be avoided to prevent potential gastrointestinal upset.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Euphrasia stricta is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from ingestion of this plant.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Monitor pets if they consume large quantities, but the plant is generally safe.
Humans
Non-toxic

Euphrasia stricta is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used in traditional medicine for its mild therapeutic properties, particularly for eye conditions, without significant toxic effects.

🌿 Toxic Parts:
entire plant
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

While non-toxic, excessive consumption is not recommended without medical supervision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Euphrasia stricta toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How is Eyebright used medicinally?

A: It is traditionally used to treat eye infections and allergies.

Q: Does Euphrasia stricta require special care?

A: It prefers moist, acidic soil and partial shade, making it moderately challenging to cultivate.

Quick Reference
Family: Orobanchaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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