Annual Winter Violets

carrichtera annua

Also known as: ["Winter Violets","Annual Winter Violets"]

Family: Brassicaceae Genus: Carrichtera Category: Flowers

Overview

A small annual plant with bright yellow flowers, typically found in Mediterranean regions.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Brassicales
Family: Brassicaceae
Genus: Carrichtera
Botanical Name: Carrichtera annua

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: very low
  • Toughness Level: very high
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, avoiding heavy cuts that stress the plant.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
very easy

easy

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

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

Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.

Soil

well-draining, sandy loam

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Use raised beds for better drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH annually.

Temperature

Prefers mild temperatures (15–25°C). Tolerates heat but may struggle below 10°C.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.

Fertilizing

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

Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed. Stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Dip in hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm (20–25°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.

Medium

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

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

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

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node to promote branching.

Pruning Plan

Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or damaged stems as needed.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings properly.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter).

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.

Suggestions

Repot only when root-bound or soil is depleted. Typically every 2–3 years.

Checklist

Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; handle roots carefully; use fresh soil mix.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Ensure water penetrates deeply but does not pool. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.

Pro Tip: Use a drip irrigation system or a watering can with a narrow spout to deliver water directly to the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme conditions.

Cold Stress

Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.

Solution: Provide frost protection in cold climates; move potted plants indoors during freezes; use mulch to insulate roots.

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop. Growth may slow in extreme heat.

Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

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

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during growing season (spring/summer), avoid fertilizing in fall/winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Carrichtera annua may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Carrichtera annua is typically caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots in Carrichtera annua are commonly caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Carrichtera annua is often a result of excessive moisture and poor drainage, leading to fungal infections and tissue decay.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Carrichtera annua is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not pose any significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for cats interacting with Carrichtera annua.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Carrichtera annua is not known to be toxic to dogs. It poses no significant health risks upon ingestion or contact.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for dogs interacting with Carrichtera annua.
Humans
Non-toxic

Carrichtera annua is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for human contact and consumption.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are necessary for human interaction with Carrichtera annua.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Carrichtera annua toxic to pets?

A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.

Q: How often should I water Carrichtera annua?

A: This plant is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering.

Q: Does Carrichtera annua attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Brassicaceae
Care: very easy
Light: full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Wild Wallflower
View
Garlic Mustard
View
Cabbage
View
flixweed
View