Small Eyebright
euphrasia minima
Also known as: ["Eyebright"]
Overview
A small, herbaceous plant known for its small white or pinkish flowers and traditional use in herbal medicine for eye ailments.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Euphrasia |
| Botanical Name: | Euphrasia minima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: shaded garden bed or container in a cool, moist environment
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–8"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days in dry conditions, less often in humid environments
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with organic matter; a mix of peat, perlite, and loam works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done as needed; major pruning in early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; avoid direct sunlight which can scorch leaves.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to new light conditions; protect from harsh afternoon sun; adjust indoor placement to mimic natural light patterns.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter direct light; monitor for signs of sunburn.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but allow soil to dry between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
moist, well-draining, acidic to neutral peat-based mix
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–6.5).
Use a pot with drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check moisture before watering.
Temperature
Prefers cool temperatures, ideally 50–65°F (10–18°C); tolerates mild warmth but thrives in cooler conditions.
Avoid placing near drafty windows; maintain consistent temperatures; monitor for stress signs.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a fertilizer with micronutrients.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a healthy cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity, indirect light, and consistent warmth (60–70°F or 15–21°C).
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand; can also root in water initially.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but can improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 2–4 weeks; new growth may take an additional 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome or plastic bag.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat if possible.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; trim back leggy stems to just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or weak stems.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; remove spent flowers.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size up from current pot; ensure good drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for root health and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water thoroughly; ensure proper drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water is removed to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or stunted growth in excessive heat; browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures can slow growth and cause root damage; frost can be fatal.
Solution: Protect from frost; move indoors in winter; ensure adequate insulation if grown in containers.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, and reduced flowering.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer correctly; apply to moist soil; stop in dormant periods.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicEuphrasia minima is not considered toxic to cats. The plant lacks compounds that are known to be harmful to felines, and ingestion is not expected to cause significant health issues.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicEuphrasia minima is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant does not contain known compounds that are harmful to canines, and ingestion typically does not result in adverse effects.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicEuphrasia minima is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It has been used in traditional medicine for its mild astringent and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly for eye and respiratory conditions. No significant toxic effects have been documented in humans.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Euphrasia minima toxic to pets?
A: There is insufficient data on its toxicity to pets.
Q: How is Euphrasia minima used medicinally?
A: It is traditionally used in herbal remedies for treating eye infections and inflammations.
Q: Does Euphrasia minima require special care?
A: It prefers moist, acidic soils and partial shade, making it moderately challenging to cultivate.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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