Dwarf Juniper Spurge
fumana ericifolia
Also known as: ["Dwarf Heath Spurge","False Heather"]
Overview
A low-growing, evergreen shrub with small, needle-like leaves and yellow flowers, native to Mediterranean regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Fumana |
| Botanical Name: | Fumana ericifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden or sunny, open border
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or gritty soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates intense light but benefits from some afternoon shade in extreme heat.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in the brightest location possible indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; rotate regularly for even growth; avoid deep shade.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; use a cactus/succulent mix as a base.
Temperature
Prefers warm, dry conditions; ideal range 15–25°C; tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged cold.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Fertilize sparingly; use a cactus/succulent formula; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common and reliable.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Let it callus for a few days.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist but not waterlogged.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus/succulent soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended 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
Sharp knife or scissors, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use sterile tools; keep medium lightly moist; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; cut back leggy stems to a healthy bud or node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering its active growth phase.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it is not too large.
Method
Remove the plant gently; trim any dead roots; repot in fresh, well-draining soil; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Suggestions
Repot only when necessary, typically every 2–3 years or if the plant becomes root-bound.
Checklist
Prepare new pot and soil; water the plant a day before repotting; handle roots carefully; place in appropriate light after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed; water early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, coarse sand, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning in cold; scorching or stunted growth in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback; roots are vulnerable to freezing in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Protect from frost; ensure good drainage; move indoors or to a sheltered location in winter.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, growth may slow, or plant may wilt despite adequate water due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide some afternoon shade; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid wetting foliage.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength; apply once in spring and once in summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal issues if they ingest Fumana ericifolia. The plant is not highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Fumana ericifolia may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort if consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumana ericifolia contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be problematic if ingested in large quantities.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumana ericifolia suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils and is well-suited for rock gardens.
Q: Does this plant require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering once established.
Q: Are the flowers fragrant?
A: The flowers are not particularly fragrant, but they are attractive to pollinators.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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