Scouler's surfgrass
phyllospadix scouleri
Also known as: ["Scouler's surfgrass"]
Overview
A marine flowering plant found in rocky intertidal zones along the Pacific coast of North America.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Zosteraceae |
| Genus: | Phyllospadix |
| Botanical Name: | Phyllospadix scouleri |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal areas, intertidal zones, or aquariums with marine conditions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–20°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"1–5"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Coarse, sandy soil with good organic matter content.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very high
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering if applicable.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; focus on removing only dead or diseased parts.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; tolerates strong coastal light but benefits from some protection during peak summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; coastal placement is ideal due to salt tolerance.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
expert onlymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Avoid deep shade; provide morning sun; shield from harsh afternoon sun in summer.
Watering
daily in extreme heat, otherwise as needed to maintain moist substrate
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid letting the plant dry out completely; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
sandy, rocky substrate with moderate salinity
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; enrich with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in cool coastal temperatures, ideally 10–20°C (50–68°F). Tolerates cooler conditions but may struggle in prolonged heat above 25°C (77°F).
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
rarely required, annually with slow-release marine fertilizer if needed
Avoid over-fertilizing; apply sparingly in spring; focus on natural soil enrichment.
Propagation
Methods
By rhizome division or seed. Rhizome division is more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Divide rhizomes into sections with roots.
- Plant in prepared medium.
- Keep moist and shaded until established.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins.
Environment
Cool, moist conditions with indirect light; maintain consistent humidity.
Medium
Coarse sand or a mix of sand and peat moss.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division.
Timeline
Rhizome division can establish in 1–2 months; seeds may take longer.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, trowel, rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Ensure each division has roots; keep consistently moist; avoid direct sun during establishment.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back dead foliage at the base; trim selectively to shape.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or damaged leaves to maintain appearance and health.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Disinfect tools; remove dead leaves; cut cleanly at the base; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 cm (1–1.5 inches) if repotting.
Method
Carefully lift the plant; divide if necessary; replant in fresh, well-draining soil with adequate space for roots.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes overcrowded or the rhizomes outgrow the container.
Checklist
Prepare new pot; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; replant at same depth; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for weather conditions.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, focusing on the root zone. Apply water slowly and deeply, allowing it to penetrate the soil without runoff. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly, keeping the substrate consistently moist but not waterlogged. Adjust frequency based on rainfall and temperature; reduce watering in cooler months.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing or browning of leaves in excessive heat; stunted growth in cold stress; wilting in extreme conditions.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or dieback, especially if combined with wet soil.
Solution: Ensure good drainage to prevent cold-induced root rot; provide a layer of mulch for insulation; avoid overwatering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, dehydration, and reduced vigor, especially if combined with low humidity.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply at half strength; fertilize only in spring; avoid during dormancy.
Fertilizing Method
Generally does not require heavy fertilization. If needed, use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring at half strength.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicPhyllospadix scouleri is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known compounds that would cause adverse effects in felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicPhyllospadix scouleri is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain any known compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicPhyllospadix scouleri, commonly known as Scouler's surfgrass, is a marine plant found in rocky intertidal zones. It is not known to produce any toxic compounds and is generally considered safe for human consumption, although it is not typically consumed as a food source.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Phyllospadix scouleri typically found?
A: It is found in rocky intertidal zones along the Pacific coast of North America.
Q: Is Phyllospadix scouleri toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: What are the common problems associated with Phyllospadix scouleri?
A: Common problems include wilting, rotting, and mould or fungal growth.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Zosteraceae |
| Care: | expert only |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | daily in extreme heat, otherwi |
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