Daisy Creeper
leptinella potentillina
Also known as: ["Leptinella squalida"]
Overview
A low-growing, mat-forming perennial with delicate, fern-like foliage and small yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Leptinella |
| Botanical Name: | Leptinella potentillina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, alpine troughs, or as a ground cover in sunny, well-drained areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and sand; avoid compacted soil; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (50–70°F or 10–21°C); thrives in cooler climates.
Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent cool conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer, none in winter
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce feeding in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone if using.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
- Transplant once rooted.
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 mix of peat and perlite or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establishment takes 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity for faster rooting; avoid direct sun during rooting phase.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Trim back leggy stems; remove yellow or dead leaves; shape the plant as desired.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or damaged foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Move to a pot one size larger (1–2 inches in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Use fresh well-draining soil; gently tease out roots if pot-bound; ensure proper drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root health; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can cause root damage and slow growth; frost can kill tender foliage.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth; move potted plants indoors during cold spells; ensure good drainage to prevent cold waterlogging.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced vigor.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute correctly; apply during active growth; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLeptinella potentillina is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicLeptinella potentillina is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicLeptinella potentillina is not known to exhibit any toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I propagate Leptinella potentillina?
A: It can be propagated by division in spring or by seed in autumn.
Q: Does Leptinella potentillina require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Q: Is Leptinella potentillina suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, its low-growing habit makes it an excellent choice for rock gardens and ground cover.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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