Princes Plume
stanleya pinnata
Also known as: ["Desert Candelabra","Yellow Candelabra"]
Overview
A tall, yellow-flowered perennial herb native to arid regions of North America, known for its distinctive candelabra-like inflorescence.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Brassicales |
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Genus: | Stanleya |
| Botanical Name: | Stanleya pinnata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open, sunny areas in gardens or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–12–38°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter. Avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually or every 2 years, depending on growth rate and desired shape.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape the plant and remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate full sun but benefits from some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to prevent scorching. Place in a location with unobstructed sun exposure, but provide shade during peak summer heat if necessary.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense midday sun; ensure no obstructions block light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure excellent drainage, and avoid frequent light watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid overwatering; use a mix suited for succulents or xerophytes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures, ideally 70–85°F (21–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat; maintain consistent temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- 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), humid environment with bright, indirect light and good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain consistent moisture.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts. Prune after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy or after flowering; make clean cuts; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water sparingly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even saturation to a depth of 6–8 inches. Allow excess water to drain freely and avoid wetting foliage. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 3–4 weeks, depending on conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, yellowing, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or leaf drop. Prolonged cold may lead to death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection in winter; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering. May go dormant if too hot.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water without overwatering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with roots; stop in dormant season.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
ToxicStanleya pinnata is toxic to cats due to its selenium content. Ingestion can result in selenium poisoning, causing gastrointestinal distress, neurological symptoms, and dermatological issues in felines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
ToxicStanleya pinnata is toxic to dogs due to its selenium content. Ingestion can cause selenium poisoning, leading to gastrointestinal upset, neurological issues, and skin problems in canines.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
ToxicStanleya pinnata contains high levels of selenium compounds, which are toxic to humans. Ingestion can lead to selenium poisoning, affecting the nervous system, skin, and hair. The toxic effects are cumulative and can be severe with prolonged exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Stanleya pinnata toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant require much maintenance?
A: No, it has low maintenance needs once established.
Q: What are the typical growing conditions for Stanleya pinnata?
A: It thrives in arid, well-drained soils and full sun.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Brassicaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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