Feverfew
aloysia polystachya
Also known as: ["Grassland Verbena","Yerba de la Negrita"]
Overview
Aloysia polystachya is a perennial shrub native to South America, known for its fragrant foliage and small white flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Genus: | Aloysia |
| Botanical Name: | Aloysia polystachya |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny, sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in cooler months.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with sand or perlite.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize less in winter; use balanced fertilizer; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems by one-third to one-half; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune before new growth; remove dead wood; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots carefully; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water thoroughly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water early in the day to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves (cold stress); wilting or leaf drop (heat stress); stunted growth.
Cold Stress
Slows growth; may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to root rot in cold, wet soil.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from frost; ensure soil dries quickly to prevent rot.
Hot Stress
Wilting; leaf scorch; reduced fragrance; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAloysia polystachya is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant is safe for cats to be around and is not expected to cause harm if ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicAloysia polystachya is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is safe for dogs to be around and is not expected to cause harm if ingested in small quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicAloysia polystachya, commonly known as yerba limón, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is widely used in traditional medicine and culinary practices for its aromatic properties.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aloysia polystachya safe for pets?
A: Yes, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How drought-tolerant is Aloysia polystachya?
A: It is highly drought-tolerant once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Verbenaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
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