Sea Lavender, Statice
limonium tuberculatum
Also known as: ["Marsh Rosemary","Paper Flower"]
Overview
A perennial herbaceous plant native to coastal regions, known for its papery, lavender-blue flowers and salt tolerance.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","deer resistant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","salt tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Genus: | Limonium |
| Botanical Name: | Limonium tuberculatum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, coastal areas, or sunny borders
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed throughout the growing season; lightly prune after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; focus on deadheading and shaping rather than heavy reduction.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight if moved from shade. Protect from harsh midday sun in hot climates to prevent scorching. Outdoor placement is ideal for optimal growth.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use shade cloth in extreme heat; ensure unobstructed sunlight.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5).
Use a cactus or succulent mix; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers moderate temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing in dormancy.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division of clumps.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), humid, and bright indirect light with good air circulation.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., cactus mix with perlite or sand).
Hormone
Optional, but rooting hormone can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots develop in 3–4 weeks; establish in new pots within 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining soil mix.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, sterile tools; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Snip flower stalks at the base; trim leggy growth to promote bushiness.
Pruning Plan
Remove spent flower stalks to encourage reblooming and maintain plant shape.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors.
Checklist
Use clean tools; remove dead or damaged growth; shape plant evenly; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container to prevent overcrowding.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth. Allow excess water to drain freely from the soil.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is not compacted.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; wilting or leaf drop in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in severe cases.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors during frost; apply a layer of mulch to protect roots in-ground; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to leaf scorch, wilting, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicLimonium tuberculatum is not known to be toxic to cats. It does not produce adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicLimonium tuberculatum is not known to be toxic to dogs. It does not produce adverse physiological effects when ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicLimonium tuberculatum is not known to exhibit toxic effects in humans. It is generally considered safe for consumption in moderate quantities.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Limonium tuberculatum suitable for coastal gardens?
A: Yes, it is highly salt-tolerant and thrives in coastal environments.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its nectar-rich flowers.
Q: How often should it be watered?
A: It is drought-tolerant and requires minimal watering once established.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Plumbaginaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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