Small Hound's-tongue

cynoglossum cheirifolium

Also known as: ["Small Hound's-tongue"]

Family: Boraginaceae Genus: Cynoglossum Category: Flowers

Overview

A herbaceous plant in the Boraginaceae family, known for its small, rough leaves and blue flowers.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Boraginales
Family: Boraginaceae
Genus: Cynoglossum
Botanical Name: Cynoglossum cheirifolium

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Flowers
  • Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with partial shade
  • Suitable For:
    Collectors & Enthusiasts Outdoor Landscapers
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°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 potting mix with added perlite or sand for aeration.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 6–12 months or after flowering.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.

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

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
moderate

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.

Watering

every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter

Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering.

Soil

well-draining, loamy soil with some organic matter

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

Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid compacted soil; refresh soil every 2–3 years.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature shifts; protect from drafts; maintain consistent room temperature.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season

Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; reduce frequency in dormant periods.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or seed; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take a healthy cutting.
  2. Remove lower leaves.
  3. Apply rooting hormone.
  4. Plant in medium.
  5. Keep moist and warm.

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

Environment

Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water.

Hormone

Optional but recommended for faster rooting.

Timeline

Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.

Tools Needed

Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining mix.

Quick Tips

Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun.

Pruning & Repotting

Pruning Guide
Method

Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or leggy growth to encourage bushier form; shape as needed for aesthetic or health.

Tools

Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.

Method

Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; 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 with drainage; trim roots if needed; use fresh soil.

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.

Pro Tip: Use room temperature water to avoid shocking the roots.
Watering Schedule Tips

Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.

Soil Improvement

Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate organic matter like compost for fertility.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; yellowing leaves in cold stress.

Cold Stress

Slows growth; may cause leaf discoloration or dieback in prolonged cold.

Solution: Move to a warmer location; provide frost protection if outdoors; avoid cold drafts.

Hot Stress

Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; growth may slow in excessive heat.

Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with leaves.

Fertilizing Method

Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Cynoglossum cheirifolium may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, which can impair photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Cynoglossum cheirifolium is often a sign of water stress, either due to drought or root issues, which can lead to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Cynoglossum cheirifolium may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, resulting in reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

Rotting, particularly root or stem rot, can occur in Cynoglossum cheirifolium due to excessive moisture or fungal infections, leading to decay and potential plant death.

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Cynoglossum cheirifolium is not known to be toxic to cats.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for cats around this plant.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Cynoglossum cheirifolium is not known to be toxic to dogs.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for dogs around this plant.
Humans
Non-toxic

Cynoglossum cheirifolium is not known to exhibit toxic properties to humans under normal circumstances.

⚡ Toxic If:

Not applicable

No specific safety precautions are required for handling or growing this plant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Cynoglossum cheirifolium toxic to pets?

A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.

Q: How should I care for Cynoglossum cheirifolium?

A: It requires moderate care, including well-drained soil and partial sunlight.

Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?

A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds.

Quick Reference
Family: Boraginaceae
Care: moderate
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days during activ
Suitable For: ["collectors/enthusiasts","outdoor landscapers"]
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