Common Galinsoga, Shaggy Soldier
galinsoga parviflora
Also known as: ["Shaggy Soldier","Peruvian Weed"]
Overview
A small, annual herbaceous plant with tiny white flowers and lance-shaped leaves, often considered a weed in agricultural settings.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","disease resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Galinsoga |
| Botanical Name: | Galinsoga parviflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden beds, borders, or containers in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed during growing season; deadhead flowers weekly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless rejuvenating.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day) with tolerance for partial shade; adjust exposure based on intensity and season.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains for filtered light; avoid direct afternoon sun indoors.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, less frequently in cooler periods
Water at the base to avoid foliage wetting; ensure soil dries between waterings; adjust frequency with seasons.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; enrich with compost; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F/15–24°C); tolerates mild heat but avoids frost.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent warmth during growth.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, not required otherwise
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; stop feeding in late autumn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 3–4 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity, indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–3 weeks; establish in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or snip stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushiness; remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or leggy growth; remove spent flowers; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease apart roots; place in slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot annually or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for vigorous growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; water before repotting; trim roots if crowded.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water early morning; avoid wetting leaves; ensure drainage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until moisture reaches the root ball; allow excess to drain; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and frequently during active growth, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce frequency in winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use raised beds for poor soil.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; cover outdoor plants in frost.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicGalinsoga parviflora is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are harmful to felines, and ingestion is generally not expected to cause adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Dogs
Non-toxicGalinsoga parviflora is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion typically does not result in adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if ingested
Humans
Slightly ToxicGalinsoga parviflora, commonly known as common galinsoga, is generally considered non-toxic but can cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort if consumed in large amounts. The plant contains small amounts of saponins, which may contribute to its slight toxicity.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Galinsoga parviflora edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and flowers are edible and can be used in salads.
Q: How can I control Galinsoga parviflora in my garden?
A: Hand-pulling or hoeing is effective, as it has a shallow root system.
Q: Does Galinsoga parviflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and butterflies due to its small, nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
