Yerba del zapatero
soliva sessilis
Also known as: ["Shoemaker's weed","Flat-stemmed soliva"]
Overview
A small, low-growing annual weed with inconspicuous flowers, often found in lawns and disturbed areas.
Benefits & Perks
["low maintenance","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Soliva |
| Botanical Name: | Soliva sessilis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: ground cover in rock gardens or as a border plant in temperate climates
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
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 to avoid scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 3–5 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix with good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); cooler in winter (50–60°F or 10–15°C).
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent room temperature; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F or 21–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier, healthier plants.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; dispose of clippings.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for growth and soil refresh.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; loosen root ball; add fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure drainage; observe plant response.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture distribution; water early in the morning to reduce evaporation; ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; adjust frequency based on season (less in winter, more in summer).
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter for fertility; ensure proper aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide a heat source if needed; avoid cold drafts.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or drooping due to excessive heat.
Solution: Increase humidity, provide shade, and water more frequently during heatwaves.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSoliva sessilis is not known to have toxic effects on cats. It is generally considered safe for cats to come into contact with or ingest this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Dogs
Non-toxicSoliva sessilis is not known to have toxic effects on dogs. It is generally considered safe for dogs to come into contact with or ingest this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Humans
Non-toxicSoliva sessilis is not known to have toxic effects on humans. It is generally considered safe for handling and consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
not applicable
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Soliva sessilis harmful to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How does this plant spread?
A: It spreads via seeds that are easily dispersed by wind or foot traffic.
Q: Can Soliva sessilis be used in landscaping?
A: It is generally considered a weed and is not typically used in intentional landscaping.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 3–5 days during active |
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