Elder-leaved figwort
scrophularia sambucifolia
Also known as: ["Elder-leaved figwort"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant with distinctive elder-like leaves and small greenish flowers, native to certain regions of Europe and Asia.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Genus: | Scrophularia |
| Botanical Name: | Scrophularia sambucifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much water.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; can tolerate average garden soil if amended.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins; light pruning can be done after flowering if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the oldest stems to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight to avoid scorching; provide shade during peak afternoon sun in hot regions; adjust light exposure based on indoor vs. outdoor placement.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until drainage occurs; allow soil to dry partially between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; use mulch to retain moisture; avoid over-amending with heavy organic matter in already rich soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent moderate temperatures for optimal growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding for mature plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the most reliable method; can also be propagated by division in early spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings with at least two nodes.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity around cuttings; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased stems; focus on removing older wood to stimulate new growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for thicker stems), sterilizing solution (e.g., rubbing alcohol).
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during dormancy; remove dead/diseased wood; shape the plant; clean up debris afterward.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts; avoid repotting during flowering or dormancy.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing more space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; water early in the day to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root rot.
Solution: Move plants indoors or to a sheltered location during cold spells; provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; rapid water loss may lead to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid 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-toxicScrophularia sambucifolia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicScrophularia sambucifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects associated with ingestion by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicScrophularia sambucifolia is not considered toxic to humans. It has no known adverse physiological effects when ingested in typical quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scrophularia sambucifolia toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water Scrophularia sambucifolia?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Q: Does Scrophularia sambucifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies with its flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scrophulariaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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