Salzburg eyebright
euphrasia salisburgensis
Also known as: ["Eyebright","Salzburg Euphrasia"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant in the Orobanchaceae family, known for its small white or pinkish flowers and traditional use in herbal medicine for eye ailments.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Euphrasia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphrasia salisburgensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, shaded woodland areas, or containers
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate.
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; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; rotate plant for even growth; adjust for weaker winter light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure good drainage; adjust frequency based on season and growth stage.
Soil
well-draining, acidic to neutral soil
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure good drainage; maintain slightly acidic pH; avoid heavy clay soils.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Keep away from drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize during active growth; stop in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F or 15–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional but can help speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–6 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent material; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or trim stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Light pruning to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth; remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruners or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even moisture without waterlogging. Water in the morning to allow foliage to dry during the day.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water moderately during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in fall and winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; browning leaf edges in dry heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback if exposed to freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; provide a warm, sheltered location.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop in excessive heat, especially with low humidity.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEuphrasia salisburgensis is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in felines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEuphrasia salisburgensis is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of adverse effects in canines after ingestion.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEuphrasia salisburgensis is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine, particularly for its potential benefits in treating eye conditions. There are no significant toxic effects reported from its consumption.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphrasia salisburgensis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How is Euphrasia salisburgensis used medicinally?
A: It is traditionally used in herbal remedies for treating eye infections and inflammations.
Q: What are the growing conditions for Euphrasia salisburgensis?
A: It thrives in moist, well-drained soils and partial shade, often found in alpine meadows.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
