Ranunculus of the marsh
scheuchzeria palustris
Also known as: ["Marsh calla","Marsh starwort"]
Overview
A rare, herbaceous perennial plant native to northern Europe and North America, typically found in marshy habitats.
Benefits & Perks
["rare/collector’s item","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Liliopsida |
| Order: | Alismatales |
| Family: | Scheuchzeriaceae |
| Genus: | Scheuchzeria |
| Botanical Name: | Scheuchzeria palustris |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: Bog garden or water garden
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–25°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–7"}
- Misting: Not required
- Drainage: Moderately well-draining; must retain moisture but not stay waterlogged.
- Soil Type: Moisture-retentive but well-draining soil; peat-based mix with added sand or perlite.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically annually or after flowering; remove any dead growth promptly.
- Pruning Intensity: Light pruning; only remove dead, diseased, or damaged leaves.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full shade; tolerates low light conditions; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to brighter light if moving from low light; protect from intense midday sun; ideal for shaded garden beds or indoor locations with indirect light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
challengingmoderate
Sunlight
Partial shade to full shade
Avoid direct sun; provide dappled light; monitor for leaf burn.
Watering
Keep consistently moist, never allowing the soil to dry out
Water thoroughly until it drains from the bottom; allow top inch of soil to dry slightly between waterings; avoid letting the plant sit in standing water.
Soil
Moist, acidic peat-based soil
pH: Acidic to slightly acidic, ideally 5.5–6.5.
Keep soil consistently moist; ensure good drainage; adjust pH if necessary with peat or lime.
Temperature
Cool to moderate temperatures, ideally 50–70°F (10–21°C); prefers cooler conditions and can tolerate frost but not prolonged freezing.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent cool to moderate conditions.
Fertilizing
Every 4–6 weeks during growing season with diluted liquid fertilizer
Dilute fertilizer to prevent root burn; apply to moist soil to avoid nutrient shock; stop fertilizing in dormant periods.
Propagation
Methods
Division of rhizomes or by seed; division is more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Carefully divide rhizomes with a sharp, sterile knife.
- Plant divisions at the same depth as the parent plant.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Best Time: Early spring before active growth begins; after flowering when the plant is establishing new growth.
Environment
High humidity, consistent moisture, and partial shade; maintain temperatures around 60–65°F (15–18°C).
Medium
Peat-based soil mix with added perlite for drainage; can also be propagated in water initially.
Hormone
Not typically required for rhizome division; optional for seed propagation to encourage germination.
Timeline
Rhizome division can establish in 1–2 months; seeds may take several months to germinate and longer to mature.
Tools Needed
Sharp knife, sterile cutting surface, peat-based soil mix, watering can.
Quick Tips
Divide rhizomes when the plant is dormant; ensure each division has roots and foliage; maintain consistent moisture during establishment.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip individual leaves at the base with clean, sharp scissors; avoid cutting into healthy growth.
Pruning Plan
Minimal pruning required; focus on removing dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health and appearance.
Tools
Clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears.
Checklist
Sanitize tools before use; remove only dead or damaged foliage; avoid over-pruning healthy growth.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins; avoid repotting during dormancy.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger than the current one; ensure it has drainage holes.
Method
Gently remove the plant from its pot; trim any dead or circling roots; replant in fresh, moist soil with good drainage.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when the plant becomes root-bound; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing overcrowding.
Checklist
Use fresh soil mix; ensure proper drainage; handle roots gently; water thoroughly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water when top inch is dry; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the base of the plant, ensuring even moisture distribution around the root zone; water early in the day to allow foliage to dry; ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water more frequently during active growth in spring and summer, reducing frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add peat moss or coco coir to retain moisture; incorporate perlite or coarse sand for drainage; use organic matter like compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf yellowing or browning in excessive heat; stunted growth or wilting in cold stress; bud drop or leaf drop in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Slows metabolic processes; can cause root damage if frozen; may lead to dieback if temperatures drop below 20°F (-6°C).
Solution: Insulate roots with mulch; move potted plants to a sheltered location; avoid overwatering in cold weather to prevent frozen soil.
Hot Stress
Causes leaf scorch, wilting, and dehydration; may lead to premature flowering or leaf drop.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity around the plant; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; rinse soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength; fertilize monthly during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume Scheuchzeria palustris roots or rhizomes. The plant's toxic compounds are not highly potent but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Scheuchzeria palustris roots and rhizomes can lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant's irritant compounds may cause discomfort but are not typically life-threatening.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicScheuchzeria palustris contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant's roots and rhizomes are the primary toxic parts, containing irritant substances that affect the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Scheuchzeria palustris typically found?
A: It is typically found in marshy habitats in northern Europe and North America.
Q: Is Scheuchzeria palustris toxic to pets?
A: The toxicity to pets is unknown.
Q: What are the common problems with growing Scheuchzeria palustris?
A: Common problems include yellow leaves and wilting.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Scheuchzeriaceae |
| Care: | challenging |
| Light: | Partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | Keep consistently moist, never |
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