Sea Oxeye Daisy
borrichia frutescens
Also known as: ["Marsh Oxeye","Coastal Daisy"]
Overview
A salt-tolerant shrub native to coastal regions, known for its daisy-like yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","salt tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Borrichia |
| Botanical Name: | Borrichia frutescens |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: coastal gardens, sandy dunes, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°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, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring; light pruning can be done as needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates coastal conditions with salt spray.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; suitable for coastal or open areas.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid deep shade; coastal tolerance is high.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
sandy, well-draining soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter if needed.
Temperature
Thrives in warm conditions (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in heat; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during growing season
Fertilize sparingly; avoid high-nitrogen formulas; apply before new growth emerges.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and partially shaded conditions.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may appear in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; shape the plant evenly.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or damaged growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary for container-grown plants to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply until water drains from the bottom, then allow the soil to dry before the next watering.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during active growth; reduce frequency in winter to every 2–3 weeks. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Yellowing leaves in cold stress; wilting or leaf drop in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or drop; prolonged cold can damage stems.
Solution: Provide frost protection in winter; mulch around the base; move potted plants indoors if temperatures drop below 40°F (4°C).
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering during extreme heat; growth may slow.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade if possible; increase watering frequency; mist foliage during heat waves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; avoid over-fertilization; water after application.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply lightly, following package instructions, and avoid fertilizing in late fall or winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicBorrichia frutescens is not toxic to cats. The plant does not contain any known toxic substances that would pose a risk to felines upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicBorrichia frutescens is not toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic compounds in the plant that would cause harm to canines if ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicBorrichia frutescens, commonly known as bushy seaside oxeye, is not considered toxic to humans. The plant has no known toxic compounds that would cause adverse physiological effects upon ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Borrichia frutescens suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal environments.
Q: Does this plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its yellow flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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