Enchanter's-nightshade
circaea lutetiana
Also known as: ["Enchanter's-nightshade","Common Enchanter's-nightshade"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous flowering plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, known for its delicate white or pale pink flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| Genus: | Circaea |
| Botanical Name: | Circaea lutetiana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: woodland garden or shaded border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive
- Soil Type: Rich, moist, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions, ideal for 3–4 hours of morning sun or dappled light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from deep shade; avoid direct afternoon sun which can scorch leaves; suitable for shaded garden beds or under trees.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; protect from intense midday rays.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply to encourage root growth; avoid overwatering, especially in winter; ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Soil
moist, fertile, humus-rich soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0)
Ensure soil stays moist but not waterlogged; enrich with organic matter annually; check pH periodically.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C). Prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate light frosts.
Protect from extreme heat; mulch to insulate in cold; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; stop in winter to avoid encouraging weak growth.
Propagation
Methods
Division or stem cuttings. Division is the most reliable method for established plants.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- For division: dig up plant, separate root clumps, replant divisions.
- For cuttings: take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, plant in medium, keep moist.
Best Time: Early spring or early fall when the plant is not in full bloom.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light. Maintain consistent moisture for cuttings.
Medium
Rich, moist potting mix with good drainage, such as peat-based mix with perlite.
Hormone
Not typically necessary for division; rooting hormone can be used for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Division: immediate establishment; stem cuttings: roots in 3–6 weeks, mature plant in 3–6 months.
Tools Needed
Garden fork, sharp knife, rooting hormone (optional), pots, moist potting mix.
Quick Tips
Divide every 3–4 years to rejuvenate; use clean tools to prevent disease; keep cuttings consistently moist.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or yellowing leaves at the base. Trim back any overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required. Focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, gloves
Checklist
Remove dead/damaged leaves; trim overgrown stems; clean tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot, ensuring it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant, trim any circling roots, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound. This encourages fresh soil and better growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, targeting the root zone. Apply water slowly to allow absorption, ensuring even moisture without saturating the soil. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal issues.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water regularly during active growth in spring and summer, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce frequency in fall and winter to prevent waterlogging.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for better drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold.
Cold Stress
Can tolerate light frosts but prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures may damage foliage and slow growth.
Solution: Provide a layer of mulch to insulate roots; move potted plants to a sheltered location during hard freezes; avoid overwatering in cold weather.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering, especially in direct sun.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer. Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they consume parts of Circaea lutetiana. The roots and leaves are the most likely to cause symptoms, though severe reactions are rare.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Circaea lutetiana can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The roots and leaves contain compounds that may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicCircaea lutetiana contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The roots and leaves are the primary toxic parts, though the effects are generally not severe unless consumed in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Circaea lutetiana toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: Does this plant require full sun?
A: No, it prefers partial shade or full shade.
Q: Does Circaea lutetiana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees and other pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Onagraceae |
| 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
