Astragalus

gundelia tournefortii

Also known as: ["Wild artichoke","Gundelia"]

Family: Asteraceae Genus: Gundelia Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to the Mediterranean region, known for its globe-shaped flower heads and edible young shoots.

Benefits & Perks

["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Asterales
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Gundelia
Botanical Name: Gundelia tournefortii

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: arid or semi-arid regions, rocky slopes, or xeriscaped gardens
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–40°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
  • Misting: not required
  • Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
  • Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of growth if necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but thrives in bright conditions.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun. Protect from intense midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for full sun exposure.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor drainage or incorrect soil conditions.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; provide shade during extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.

Watering

every 3–4 weeks during active growth, less frequently in dormancy

Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure excellent drainage, and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.

Soil

well-drained, sandy or loamy soil

pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.

Temperature

Prefers warm to hot temperatures (20–30°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in arid, hot conditions.

Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain consistent warmth during active growth.

Fertilizing

rarely required, annually with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer

Fertilize only when actively growing; avoid over-fertilizing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of offsets. Stem cuttings are more common for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Let it callus for a few days.
  3. Plant in moist medium.
  4. Keep warm and humid.

Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.

Environment

Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining mix of cactus soil and perlite or sand.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots may form in 2–4 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.

Tools Needed

Sharp knife, rooting hormone, propagation tray, well-draining medium.

Quick Tips

Allow cuttings to callus before planting; maintain humidity; avoid direct sun during rooting.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back stems or cut just above a leaf node to promote branching.

Pruning Plan

Prune to maintain shape, remove dead or damaged growth, and encourage bushier development.

Tools

Sharp, clean pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Increase pot size by 2–5 cm in diameter.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.

Suggestions

Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.

Checklist

Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; handle roots carefully; water lightly after repotting.

Advanced Care Tips

Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist

Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.

How to Apply Water Properly

Water directly at the root zone, ensuring even moisture penetration. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away completely.

Pro Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout to direct water precisely to the base of the plant, avoiding wetting the leaves.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to once every 4–6 weeks, depending on conditions.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite, sand, or coarse grit to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or bud drop in extreme cold or heat.

Cold Stress

Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dormancy. Prolonged cold can lead to root rot.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection; reduce watering in cold periods.

Hot Stress

Excessive heat can cause leaf scorch, wilting, or reduced flowering if water and shade are inadequate.

Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; ensure good air circulation.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced, low-nitrogen fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply monthly during the growing season (spring to early fall), avoiding winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing of leaves in Gundelia tournefortii may indicate nutrient deficiencies, water stress, or pathogenic infections, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Gundelia tournefortii is often a response to water stress, root damage, or pathogenic infections, leading to reduced turgor pressure and potential plant death if not addressed.

Leaf spots on Gundelia tournefortii are typically caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in necrotic lesions that can reduce photosynthetic efficiency and weaken the plant.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, in Gundelia tournefortii can be caused by excessive moisture, fungal pathogens, or bacterial infections, leading to tissue decay and plant decline.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Slightly Toxic

Cats may experience mild gastrointestinal upset if they ingest parts of Gundelia tournefortii. The plant's sap can cause irritation to the mouth, throat, and skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting drooling lethargy oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Prevent cats from accessing the plant. If ingestion is suspected, seek veterinary advice promptly.
Dogs
Slightly Toxic

In dogs, ingestion of Gundelia tournefortii can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's sap may cause irritation if it comes into contact with mucous membranes or broken skin.

⚠️ Symptoms:
vomiting diarrhea lethargy oral irritation
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Keep pets away from the plant. If ingestion occurs, monitor for symptoms and consult a veterinarian if necessary.
Humans
Slightly Toxic

Gundelia tournefortii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and skin irritation upon contact. The plant's sap is particularly irritating to mucous membranes and can lead to mild dermatitis in sensitive individuals.

⚠️ Symptoms:
nausea vomiting diarrhea skin irritation mild dermatitis
🌿 Toxic Parts:
roots stems leaves
⚡ Toxic If:

if eaten

Handle with care, especially when preparing for consumption. Wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid contact with eyes and open wounds.
Important: Keep this plant out of reach of children and pets. If ingestion occurs, contact poison control or veterinary services immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Gundelia tournefortii edible?

A: Yes, the young shoots are edible and are often used in traditional cuisines.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.

Q: How drought-tolerant is this plant?

A: It is moderately drought-tolerant and can survive in arid conditions.

Quick Reference
Family: Asteraceae
Care: moderate
Light: full sun
Water: every 3–4 weeks during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Get Expert Care Tips

Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!

Google Play App Store
Share This Plant

Related Plants

Elecampane
View
Crispate Laggera
View
conyza fleabane
View
Rose White Yarrow
View