Nodding Flower
lithospermum incisum
Also known as: ["Wolfberry","Nodding Flower"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial with delicate, nodding flowers and lance-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Genus: | Lithospermum |
| Botanical Name: | Lithospermum incisum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- 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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust to partial shade in intense summer heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun; ensure good air circulation to prevent sunburn.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Morning sun is ideal; provide afternoon shade in hot climates; rotate pot for even growth.
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 with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for nutrients.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler nights but avoids extreme heat.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent cool temperatures for best growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize lightly to prevent excessive foliage growth; stop fertilizing in late fall; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pots within 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead/damaged stems; shape the plant.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
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.
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 to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Provide winter protection with mulch; move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become stunted due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but infrequently; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; water before and after fertilizing.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLithospermum incisum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicLithospermum incisum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicLithospermum incisum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no documented cases of toxicity associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Lithospermum incisum attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: Is Lithospermum incisum toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Lithospermum incisum be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Boraginaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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