False Pimpernel
lindernia crustacea
Also known as: ["Water Pimpernel","Crustaceous Lindernia"]
Overview
A small, creeping herbaceous plant often found in wet or marshy environments, characterized by its small, bright pink flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Phrymaceae |
| Genus: | Lindernia |
| Botanical Name: | Lindernia crustacea |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: indoor pot or shaded garden bed with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain moderate humidity, especially in dry environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning every 4–6 weeks during growing season; major pruning in early spring if needed.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy in low light.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to prevent scorching. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window; outdoors, provide dappled shade in midday.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct sun; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain moist but not waterlogged soil; water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
moist, well-draining soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Thrives in 65–80°F (18–27°C). Prefers warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain stable humidity; protect from air conditioning vents.
Fertilizing
every 2 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer, reduced in winter
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings are the easiest and most reliable method.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 3–4 inch cutting just below a node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid and warm.
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
Moist potting mix or water; a mix of peat and perlite works well.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 1–3 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Sharp scissors or knife, rooting hormone, small pots, plastic bags or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; maintain humidity with a plastic cover.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back stems just above a leaf node or pair of leaves to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to promote continuous blooming.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early 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 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots gently; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution around the root zone. Water deeply to encourage root growth, and always allow excess water to drain away.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water consistently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry between waterings. Increase frequency during hot, dry periods; reduce in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate organic matter like peat moss for moisture retention.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in cold; leaf scorch or browning in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or death, especially below 50°F (10°C).
Solution: Protect from cold drafts; move indoors during frost; use a heat mat for bottom warmth if needed.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf burn, and reduced flowering if humidity is too low.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a pebble tray; ensure adequate water.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during growing season only; flush soil periodically; monitor for signs of over-fertilization.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Reduce or stop in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest large quantities of Lindernia crustacea may experience mild gastrointestinal issues. The plant is not highly toxic to cats, but ingestion should be minimized to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of significant amounts of Lindernia crustacea may cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs. The plant is not considered highly toxic, but caution should be exercised to prevent overconsumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicLindernia crustacea contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant amounts. The plant is not typically considered highly toxic to humans, but overconsumption may lead to discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Lindernia crustacea toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How does Lindernia crustacea grow?
A: It is a creeping herb that thrives in wet or marshy environments, often spreading along the ground.
Q: Does Lindernia crustacea attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its small, bright pink flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Phrymaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
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