Portuguese Cleonia
cleonia lusitanica
Also known as: ["Portuguese Cleonia"]
Overview
A rare and endemic shrub species native to the Iberian Peninsula, notable for its unique foliage and ecological significance.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Cleonia |
| Botanical Name: | Cleonia lusitanica |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock garden or border in a sunny, well-drained spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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, loamy soil with added 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 the plant if overgrown.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; adjust to morning sun in summer to prevent leaf burn.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; avoid intense afternoon sun; place in filtered light indoors or dappled shade outdoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter harsh light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); cooler temperatures in winter (50–60°F) to encourage dormancy.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid overfertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting, apply hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, wait for roots.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and warm temperatures (65–75°F).
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat and perlite or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 3–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy growth to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools, prune dead/leggy stems, shape the plant, clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in new pot with fresh soil, water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil freshness.
Checklist
Check root bound status, prepare new pot, trim roots, use fresh soil, water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop; prolonged cold can lead to root damage or death.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; avoid drafts; protect from frost.
Hot Stress
Leaf scorch, wilting, or dehydration; may drop buds or flowers.
Solution: Provide shade, increase humidity, water more frequently, avoid placing near heat sources.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase, use diluted fertilizer, apply during growing season, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); cease in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCleonia lusitanica is not known to be toxic to cats. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCleonia lusitanica is not known to be toxic to dogs. There are no reported adverse effects from ingestion or contact.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCleonia lusitanica is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption and handling.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Cleonia lusitanica commonly cultivated?
A: No, it is rare and primarily found in its native habitat.
Q: Does this plant have any medicinal uses?
A: There is limited documented evidence of medicinal use.
Q: How does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Its flowers are known to attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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