Oklahoma globemallow
eryngium leavenworthii
Also known as: ["Oklahoma eryngo","Leavenworth's eryngo"]
Overview
A drought-tolerant annual herbaceous plant native to the Great Plains of North America, known for its striking metallic blue-green foliage and spherical flower heads.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Apiales |
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Genus: | Eryngium |
| Botanical Name: | Eryngium leavenworthii |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: open, sunny garden bed or container with excellent drainage
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter; cactus or succulent mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning throughout the growing season; major pruning in late winter or early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning during flowering.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); tolerates partial shade but may produce fewer blooms.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent scorching.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plants for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; avoid placing in drafty areas.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in dormant periods
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; use raised beds in poorly drained areas; topdress with compost annually.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C); thrives in hot, dry conditions; tolerates mild frosts but prefers frost-free environments.
Monitor temperature extremes; adjust watering and light accordingly; protect from sudden temperature shifts.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3–4 months with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize sparingly to avoid excessive foliage growth; apply after watering to prevent root burn; stop fertilizing in late autumn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; seeds can also be sown in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant once rooted.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting soil.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take 2–3 months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; deadhead spent flowers; cut back leggy stems to a healthy node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers to prolong blooming.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune dead or damaged growth; remove spent flowers; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation and fungal risk.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter or drought. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf scorch, stunted growth, or premature flowering in excessive heat; leaf drop or browning in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf discoloration or dieback; prolonged cold can be fatal.
Solution: Provide frost protection (e.g., row covers); move potted plants indoors; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, wilting, or reduced flowering; may require increased watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid winter feeding; rinse tools after use.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation if they consume parts of Eryngium leavenworthii. The plant poses a low risk to felines, but ingestion should be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Eryngium leavenworthii seeds or roots may cause mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic to canines, but caution is advised to prevent accidental consumption.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicEryngium leavenworthii contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The plant is not highly toxic, but consumption may lead to discomfort due to its irritant properties.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Eryngium leavenworthii toxic to pets?
A: There is no reliable information available regarding its toxicity to pets.
Q: How often should I water this plant?
A: Water sparingly, as it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Apiaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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