Northern Bugleweed

lycopus uniflorus

Also known as: ["Northern Bugleweed","Water Bugleweed"]

Family: Lamiaceae Genus: Lycopus Category: Herbs & Weeds

Overview

A perennial herbaceous plant native to North America, typically found in wetlands and along streams.

Benefits & Perks

["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","disease resistant","shade tolerant"]

Botanical Classification

Phylum: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Lamiales
Family: Lamiaceae
Genus: Lycopus
Botanical Name: Lycopus uniflorus

Plant Characteristics

Basic Information
  • Category: Herbs & Weeds
  • Suitable Location: moist garden beds or containers with consistent moisture
  • Suitable For:
    Beginners Outdoor Landscapers Wildlife Supporters
  • Is Weed: No
  • Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
  • Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
  • Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
  • Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
  • Drainage: Moderately well-draining; avoid waterlogged conditions.
  • Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter.
Maintenance Level
  • Maintenance Level: moderate
  • Toughness Level: moderate
  • Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
  • Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at a time.
Care Details

Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily); adaptable to dappled light.

Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to avoid leaf burn; protect from intense midday sun; suitable for both indoor and outdoor cultivation with proper light adjustment.

Warning Signs: Yellowing leaves, root rot, or stunted growth indicate poor soil conditions or improper watering.

Care Requirements

Care Difficulty
easy

moderate

Sunlight

partial shade to full sun

Morning sun is ideal; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even growth.

Watering

every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings

Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.

Soil

moist, fertile, well-drained loam

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

Ensure good drainage; enrich with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.

Temperature

Prefers moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C); tolerates cooler conditions but avoid frost.

Avoid sudden temperature changes; protect from frost; maintain moderate warmth for optimal growth.

Fertilizing

every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer

Fertilize less in winter; apply to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.

Propagation

Methods

Stem cuttings or division of rhizomes.

Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
  1. Take cuttings.
  2. Apply rooting hormone.
  3. Plant in medium.
  4. Maintain humidity.
  5. Wait for roots.

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

Environment

Warm, humid conditions with indirect light.

Medium

Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand.

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, 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

Cut stems back to a leaf node or healthy bud; remove any dead or diseased growth.

Pruning Plan

Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and better air circulation.

Tools

Pruning shears, sterilizing solution.

Checklist

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

Repotting Guide
Best Season

Spring, before the active growing season begins.

Pot Size

One size larger pot; ensure good drainage holes.

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 growth and soil refreshment.

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 even moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away to prevent waterlogging.

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 compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage.

Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues

Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold.

Cold Stress

Slows growth and may cause leaf damage or dieback in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).

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

Hot Stress

Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop in excessive heat above 85°F (29°C).

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

Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist

Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.

Fertilizing Method

Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring to early fall); avoid fertilizing in winter.

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellowing leaves in Lycopus uniflorus may indicate nutrient deficiencies, overwatering, or pest infestations, affecting photosynthesis and overall plant health.

Wilting in Lycopus uniflorus can be caused by water stress, either due to drought or overwatering, leading to reduced turgor pressure and impaired nutrient uptake.

Leaf spots on Lycopus uniflorus may be caused by fungal or bacterial pathogens, leading to reduced photosynthetic efficiency and potential defoliation.

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

Toxicity Warning

Cats
Non-toxic

Lycopus uniflorus is not considered toxic to cats. No evidence suggests adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While non-toxic, excessive consumption of any plant material may cause gastrointestinal upset in cats.
Dogs
Non-toxic

Lycopus uniflorus is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no documented cases of toxicity in canines from exposure to this plant.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

Monitor pets if they consume unfamiliar plants, but this species is not known to be harmful.
Humans
Non-toxic

Lycopus uniflorus is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It has been used traditionally in some cultures for medicinal purposes without reported toxicity.

⚡ Toxic If:

Generally non-toxic

While generally safe, consult a healthcare professional before using any plant medicinally.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Lycopus uniflorus toxic to pets?

A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Q: Where does Lycopus uniflorus typically grow?

A: It is commonly found in wetlands and along streams in North America.

Q: Does Lycopus uniflorus attract wildlife?

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

Quick Reference
Family: Lamiaceae
Care: easy
Light: partial shade to full sun
Water: every 7–10 days, allowing so
Suitable For: ["beginners","outdoor landscapers","wildlife supporters (attracts bees, butterflies, birds)"]
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