Purple everlasting
gnaphalium purpureum
Also known as: ["Cudweed","Sweet everlasting"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with woolly, purple-tinged leaves and small, daisy-like flowers that dry well.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Gnaphalium |
| Botanical Name: | Gnaphalium purpureum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in a sunny spot, or container on a patio
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–11"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning is best done in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not waterlogged; amend with organic matter for fertility; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; provide shade in extreme heat.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in fall.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are the most common method for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic bag, well-draining potting mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; remove dead or yellowing leaves; trim back overgrown stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant as desired; dispose of clippings properly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; provides fresh soil and more space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; gently remove plant; trim roots if necessary; repot and water.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, allowing water to penetrate the root zone; ensure excess water drains away; water early in the day to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration by avoiding compacted soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop or leaf drop in sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or death; frost can be lethal.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may require increased watering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; ensure adequate water supply.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGnaphalium purpureum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicGnaphalium purpureum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicGnaphalium purpureum is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has no known significant toxic effects on human physiology.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Gnaphalium purpureum toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How easy is it to care for?
A: It is easy to care for with low maintenance requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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