Passerina Thymelaea
thymelaea passerina
Also known as: ["Passerina Thymelaea"]
Overview
A shrub species in the family Thymelaeaceae, native to certain regions of the Mediterranean and North Africa.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malpighiales |
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Genus: | Thymelaea |
| Botanical Name: | Thymelaea passerina |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, xeriscapes, or sunny borders in temperate regions
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth if needed.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure bright light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh sun; place near south-facing window.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; topdress with gravel for extra drainage.
Temperature
Warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frost but prefers mild conditions.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden drops.
Fertilizing
every 2 months during spring and summer, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use slow-release if preferred.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like cactus soil with perlite or sand.
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development.
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective pruning of stems to shape plant; avoid cutting into old wood.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/overgrown stems; shape evenly; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; use fresh well-draining soil; ensure pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill container; beneficial for growth and drainage.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone, ensuring moisture penetrates deeply. Allow excess water to drain freely; water in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly during winter dormancy.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; chlorosis in stress.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; may suffer leaf damage or dieback in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate roots with mulch; avoid watering during cold snaps.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering in excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water early morning or late evening.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; stop in winter.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicThymelaea passerina is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by felines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicThymelaea passerina is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no documented adverse effects when ingested by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicThymelaea passerina is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It has no documented physiological impact when ingested.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Thymelaea passerina toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How should I care for Thymelaea passerina?
A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and full sun exposure.
Q: Does Thymelaea passerina attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Thymelaeaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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