Yellow Restharrow

ononis viscosa

Also known as: ["Yellow Restharrow","Sticky Ononis"]

Family: Fabaceae Genus: Ononis Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant in the Fabaceae family, characterized by its yellow flowers and sticky stems.

Benefits & Perks

["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Fabales
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Ononis
Botanical Name: Ononis viscosa

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: rock gardens, borders, or containers in sunny areas
  • Suitable For:
    Busy People (low Maintenance) Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if grown in very dry indoor conditions
  • Drainage: Fast-draining.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: low
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in summer; ensure good air circulation.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil or drainage issues.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

full sun to partial shade

Rotate plant for even light; use sheer curtains in intense sun; avoid direct sun indoors.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).

Ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter.

Temperature

Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing

every 6–8 weeks during spring and summer, none in fall and winter

Fertilize in spring/summer only; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (70–75°F), high humidity, indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Pruners, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat if possible.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Cut back stems to healthy buds; thin out crowded areas.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better flowering.

Tools

Pruning shears, gloves.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; cut at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/damaged stems; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before new growth begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure it has drainage holes.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil; ensure good drainage.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.

Checklist

Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a narrow spout to direct water to the roots without wetting foliage.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency 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, leaf drop, or chlorosis in extreme heat; stunted growth in cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration; vulnerable to root damage in freezing conditions.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold.

Hot Stress

Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Ononis viscosa may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Ononis viscosa can result from water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to impaired nutrient uptake and potential plant death.

Leaf spots on Ononis viscosa may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential leaf drop.

Rotting, particularly root rot, can occur in Ononis viscosa due to excessive moisture, leading to decay of root systems and eventual plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Ononis viscosa. The plant is not considered highly toxic to cats but caution is advised.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea depression
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. Seek veterinary advice if ingestion occurs.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Ononis viscosa seeds and roots may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep dogs away from the plant, especially seeds and roots. Contact a veterinarian if ingestion is suspected.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Ononis viscosa contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and allergic reactions in humans. The toxic effects are generally not severe but can be problematic for individuals with pre-existing sensitivities.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
seeds roots
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Avoid ingestion of seeds and roots. Wash hands thoroughly after handling the plant.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Ononis viscosa toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How does Ononis viscosa grow?

A: It is a low-maintenance plant that thrives in well-drained soils and full sun.

Q: Does Ononis viscosa attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.

Quick Reference
Family: Fabaceae
Care: easy
Light: full sun to partial shade
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["busy people (low maintenance)","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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