Field Woodruff
asperula arvensis
Also known as: ["Field Woodruff","Corn Asperula"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant with creeping stems and small, ovate leaves, often found in fields and grasslands.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Asperula |
| Botanical Name: | Asperula arvensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a sunny to partially shaded area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically once or twice a year.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate pruning.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade; 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day, with some afternoon shade in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust placement based on seasonal light changes.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; monitor for sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure good drainage; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy loam with moderate fertility
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures, 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoids frost.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate conditions.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute to half strength; fertilize during active growth only.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining soil.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide warmth.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or shear lightly to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged parts; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 1–2 inches (2–5 cm) in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare new soil; handle roots carefully; 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 directly at the root zone until the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn yellow or brown; risk of frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type; dilute properly; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicAsperula arvensis is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines, and ingestion is generally not expected to cause adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicAsperula arvensis is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion typically does not result in adverse effects.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicAsperula arvensis, commonly known as field woodruff, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to its high fiber content and potential irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Asperula arvensis toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Asperula arvensis grow?
A: It spreads via creeping stems and prefers open, grassy areas.
Q: Is Asperula arvensis suitable for beginners?
A: Yes, it is easy to care for and requires minimal maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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