Spotted Sow-thistle
scolymus maculatus
Also known as: ["Spotted Sow-thistle","Spotted Sowthistle"]
Overview
A herbaceous plant in the daisy family, characterized by its spotted stems and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","edible fruits","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Scolymus |
| Botanical Name: | Scolymus maculatus |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: border plantings or rock gardens in temperate to subtropical regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°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.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate, focusing on selective removal of unwanted stems or foliage.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, position near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom, allow soil to dry partially between waterings, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild fluctuations but avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat or cold.
Avoid placing near heating/cooling vents; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of root clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings or divide roots, prepare medium, apply rooting hormone (if using), plant, maintain humidity, monitor for roots.
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 with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist soil for division.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; division can establish in 1–2 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems for cuttings; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips, cut just above a leaf node or bud, remove entire stems if necessary.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged growth to maintain plant health and encourage new growth; shape as needed for aesthetic purposes.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/damaged growth, shape plant, avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water thoroughly, ensure drainage, avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, apply until water drains freely from the pot, ensure even moisture without waterlogging, water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry, typically every 7–10 days in spring/summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall/winter.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure aeration with organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in response to sudden temperature changes.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Solution: Move to a warmer location, insulate pots during cold snaps, avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase humidity, water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease fertilizing in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicScolymus maculatus is not considered toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of toxicity in felines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicScolymus maculatus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicScolymus maculatus, commonly known as spotted weld, is not considered toxic to humans. It is a plant used historically for dyeing and has no known toxic effects when consumed in normal quantities.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Scolymus maculatus edible?
A: Yes, it is edible and has been used in traditional cuisine.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.
Q: How easy is it to grow?
A: It is relatively easy to grow with low maintenance requirements.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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