Large-flowered Yellow False Foxglove
aureolaria grandiflora
Also known as: ["Yellow False Foxglove","Great Yellow Mistletoe"]
Overview
A parasitic herbaceous plant known for its striking yellow flowers and hemiparasitic nature, relying on host plants for nutrients.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Aureolaria |
| Botanical Name: | Aureolaria grandiflora |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- 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; can tolerate slightly sandy conditions.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 2–3 months; major pruning annually after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth for major pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust for seasonal light intensity.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct sun to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining loam with high 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 65–75°F (18–24°C); cooler temperatures (50–60°F) tolerated in winter.
Avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth in growing season; protect from frost.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer 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; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushiness; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for nutrient replenishment.
Checklist
Check root bound status; 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; avoid leaf wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain completely; 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, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth or bud drop in cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to pests.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; cease in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAureolaria grandiflora is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAureolaria grandiflora is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAureolaria grandiflora is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Aureolaria grandiflora toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Aureolaria grandiflora grow?
A: It is a hemiparasitic plant that requires a host plant for nutrients.
Q: Does it attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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