Spanish Carline Thistle
carlina hispanica
Also known as: ["Hispanic Carline Thistle","Spanish Silver Thistle"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Iberian Peninsula, characterized by its silvery, spiny leaves and yellow flower heads.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Carlina |
| Botanical Name: | Carlina hispanica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny border in a temperate climate
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright, direct sunlight for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to avoid scorching in peak summer.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; provide shade during the hottest part of the day in summer; place in a south-facing window indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even light exposure; avoid sudden light changes; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid waterlogged soil.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix designed for succulents; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a balanced formula.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in propagation medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Wait for roots to develop.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; new growth may take an additional 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools to prevent disease; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to encourage branching.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune during active growth; remove dead/damaged parts; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by one inch in diameter; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; discard excess water.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent root rot; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in cold; scorching or bleaching in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause root damage, and increases susceptibility to disease in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid cold drafts; reduce watering in cold periods.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, and water needs may increase in extreme heat.
Solution: Provide partial shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but carefully.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCarlina hispanica is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCarlina hispanica is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCarlina hispanica is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Carlina hispanica toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should Carlina hispanica be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires infrequent watering, especially in well-drained soil.
Q: Does Carlina hispanica attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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