Common fumitory
fumaria officinalis
Also known as: ["Fumitory","Earth Smoke","Lampwort"]
Overview
A slender, annual herbaceous plant with delicate, finely divided leaves and small, pinkish-white flowers. It is often found in disturbed soils and is known for its traditional medicinal uses.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Papaverales |
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Genus: | Fumaria |
| Botanical Name: | Fumaria officinalis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in partial shade
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter. A standard potting mix with added perlite or sand works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very low
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or when stems become leggy.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning to maintain shape and remove spent flowers.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight or bright indirect light). Adjust for intense summer sun to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight; provide shade during peak summer hours; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Avoid intense midday sun; provide dappled light in hot climates; rotate for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Avoid overwatering; ensure good drainage; water at the base of the plant.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with organic matter for fertility.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cooler conditions but avoids extreme heat.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Use a balanced fertilizer; dilute well; fertilize only during active growth.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division. Stem cuttings are the most common method for Fumaria officinalis.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist 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.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat and perlite or sand.
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can speed up the process.
Timeline
Roots typically form within 2–4 weeks; the plant can be transplanted after 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; keep soil consistently moist; provide warmth for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip off dead or overgrown stems at the base. Pinch back tips to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning is needed. Focus on removing dead or damaged stems to encourage healthy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears or sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged stems; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
One size up from the current pot (e.g., from a 4-inch to a 6-inch pot).
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any circling roots; repot in a slightly larger container with fresh, well-draining soil.
Suggestions
Repot only if the plant becomes root-bound or outgrows its container. Fumaria officinalis is often grown as an annual or biennial and may not require repotting.
Checklist
Use fresh soil; ensure good drainage; handle roots gently; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water at the base; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring the soil is moistened to a depth of 2–3 inches. Allow excess water to drain away completely. Water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water lightly and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter or during dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve 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
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root rot if soil remains wet in cold conditions.
Solution: Ensure well-drained soil; protect from frost; move to a warmer location if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C).
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering due to excessive heat and dryness.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are sensitive to pyrrolizidine alkaloids and may suffer from gastrointestinal distress or liver complications if they consume significant amounts of Fumaria officinalis.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest large amounts of Fumaria officinalis. The pyrrolizidine alkaloids present can potentially lead to liver issues with chronic exposure.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumaria officinalis contains pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage if consumed in significant amounts over time. The plant is generally considered safe in small doses but can be hepatotoxic with prolonged or excessive ingestion.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumaria officinalis toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Q: What are the traditional uses of Fumaria officinalis?
A: It has been used in traditional medicine to treat skin conditions, liver issues, and digestive problems.
Q: Is Fumaria officinalis a weed?
A: Yes, it is often considered a weed due to its tendency to grow in disturbed soils and spread easily.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Papaveraceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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