Chinese Foxglove
rehmannia elata
Also known as: ["Chinese Foxglove"]
Overview
A herbaceous perennial plant native to China, known for its large, tubular flowers and medicinal properties.
Benefits & Perks
["medicinal use","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Lamiales |
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Genus: | Rehmannia |
| Botanical Name: | Rehmannia elata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed with partial shade or container in a sheltered spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically after flowering or in early spring.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for rejuvenation.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily. Can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light to avoid scorching. Protect from direct midday sun, especially in summer. Indoors, place near an east or west-facing window.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from intense afternoon sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid south-facing windows in summer.
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, fertile loam with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Avoid heavy clay soils; ensure consistent moisture retention without waterlogging; amend with organic matter annually.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but avoid prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; maintain moderate humidity.
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 rhizomes.
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: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light and consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; moist, rich soil for rhizome division.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for stem cuttings to encourage root development.
Timeline
Stem cuttings may root in 3–6 weeks; rhizome division establishes quickly if healthy.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep cuttings out of direct sun; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; check for roots after 3 weeks.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips for bushier growth; deadhead spent flowers; trim leggy stems to promote new growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
Tools
Clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape plant; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active 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 refresh soil and provide space.
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; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the day to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply when the top 1–2 inches of soil are dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot. Adjust based on humidity and temperature.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; mix in perlite or sand for drainage; ensure soil is loose and aerated.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves), stunted growth, bud drop, or leaf necrosis (browning/tissue death).
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or dieback if below freezing for extended periods.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location during freezes. Mulch heavily for in-ground plants to insulate roots.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering due to water stress and metabolic disruption.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering frequency, and ensure good air circulation to reduce stress.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; fertilize during active growth; 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
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicRehmannia elata is not considered toxic to cats. Its use in feline herbal medicine is limited, but it is not known to cause adverse effects in cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Dogs
Non-toxicRehmannia elata is not considered toxic to dogs. It has been used in some herbal formulations for canine health, particularly for urinary and kidney support.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Humans
Non-toxicRehmannia elata is not considered toxic to humans. It is primarily used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits, particularly in supporting kidney and liver function.
⚡ Toxic If:
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Rehmannia elata edible?
A: The roots are used in traditional Chinese medicine, but consumption should be supervised by a healthcare professional.
Q: Does Rehmannia elata attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Q: How often should Rehmannia elata be watered?
A: Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Orobanchaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
