Ballhead Waterleaf
hydrophyllum capitatum
Also known as: ["Ballhead Waterleaf"]
Overview
A perennial herb native to western North America, recognized by its rounded clusters of small, whitish to pale lavender flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Boraginales |
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| Genus: | Hydrophyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Hydrophyllum capitatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or woodland setting
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- 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 sandy or rocky soils.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning every 2–3 years or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary, but avoid excessive cutting in a single
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerates partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to direct sunlight to avoid scorching; place in filtered light during peak summer hours; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light cycles.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense sunlight; avoid placing near south-facing windows in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
moist, well-draining, rich in organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil is not compacted; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH periodically; amend as needed.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); thrives in cooler climates and may struggle in excessive heat.
Monitor temperature fluctuations; use a thermometer to track conditions; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months with balanced liquid fertilizer during growing season
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
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 with at least one node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist propagation medium.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use clean tools to prevent disease; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded stems.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased parts; focus on structural improvement.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves, small saw (for larger stems).
Checklist
Sterilize tools before use; prune during dormancy or after flowering; remove dead/diseased parts first; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Gently remove the plant; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for refreshing soil and providing space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution to the root zone; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil is dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; use mulch to retain moisture and improve soil structure.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause leaf damage or dieback; may enter dormancy in colder regions.
Solution: Protect from frost with a frost cloth or move to a sheltered location; avoid sudden temperature drops; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering; may require increased humidity and shade.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture; improve air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check fertilizer type and dilution; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; monitor for signs of overfertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicHydrophyllum capitatum is not known to pose a toxic risk to cats. It is generally considered safe for accidental ingestion in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicHydrophyllum capitatum is not known to pose a toxic risk to dogs. It is generally considered safe for accidental ingestion in small amounts.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicHydrophyllum capitatum is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the habitat of Hydrophyllum capitatum?
A: It typically grows in moist, shaded areas such as woodlands, streambanks, and forest understories in western North America.
Q: Does Hydrophyllum capitatum have any medicinal uses?
A: Traditional uses are limited, but it is occasionally used in herbal remedies for its mild diuretic properties.
Q: How does Hydrophyllum capitatum reproduce?
A: It reproduces by both seeds and vegetative spread through rhizomes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Hydrophyllaceae |
| 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
