Woolly Blue Curls
trichostema lanatum
Also known as: ["Woolly Blue Curls","Woollystem"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to California, known for its striking blue-purple flowers and aromatic foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Trichostema |
| Botanical Name: | Trichostema lanatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden, border, or container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering or every 2–3 years to rejuvenate growth
- 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 partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moving from shade; protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates; place outdoors in full sun during growing season.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight exposure.
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
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit for better aeration.
Temperature
Prefers mild temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost; thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to remove excess salts.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
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: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light; protect from direct sun
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut stems just above a leaf node or bud
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done after flowering or in early spring.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune after flowering; remove dead or diseased stems; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency by season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone; water until it drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Allow soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure soil is not compacted
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or stunted growth in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf damage or dieback; frost will kill the plant.
Solution: Protect from frost with a cover or move indoors in cold climates; avoid placing near drafty windows or doors.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may require more frequent watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase humidity around the plant; water early in the day to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season; avoid over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTrichostema lanatum is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant when ingested by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicTrichostema lanatum is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant when ingested by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicTrichostema lanatum, commonly known as woolly bluecurls, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I water Trichostema lanatum?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. It is drought-tolerant once established.
Q: Does Trichostema lanatum attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its fragrant flowers.
Q: Is Trichostema lanatum toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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