Smooth-stalked Fumana
fumana laevipes
Also known as: ["Smooth-stalked Cistus","Smooth-stalked Rockrose"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub native to Mediterranean regions, characterized by small, leathery leaves and yellow flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Malvales |
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Genus: | Fumana |
| Botanical Name: | Fumana laevipes |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or xeriscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Sandy, gritty, or loamy soil with low organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy, depending on desired shape and vigor.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily). Adjust for intense summer heat by providing partial afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to full sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure outdoor placement in a sunny, well-ventilated area.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Avoid sudden light changes; use shade cloth in extreme heat; rotate plant for even exposure.
Watering
every 2–3 weeks during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; ensure excellent drainage; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or rocky soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure soil dries quickly; avoid heavy clay mixes; use terracotta pots for better drainage.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F or 18–29°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation; adjust watering with temperature changes.
Fertilizing
rarely required, if used then every 3 months with a balanced, diluted fertilizer
Fertilize only when actively growing; use a balanced formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Let it callus for a day.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Keep humid until roots form.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus soil.
Hormone
Optional, but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 3–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Cut back stems to just above a leaf node or bud; remove crossing or crowded branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at the right time; remove dead/diseased parts; shape evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Use fresh, well-draining soil; gently tease out crowded roots; ensure a slight pot size increase.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot. Fumana laevipes prefers being slightly root-bound.
Checklist
Check root boundness; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; reduce frequency in winter.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom, ensuring even saturation without pooling. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add coarse sand, perlite, or pumice to improve drainage; incorporate small amounts of compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or browning leaf edges in excessive heat; stunted growth or blackened stems in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause root damage or dieback, especially in wet soil.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; protect roots with mulch; avoid watering during cold spells.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can lead to dehydration, leaf scorch, or flower drop, especially if combined with poor watering.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during active growth (spring and summer). Avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats that ingest Fumana laevipes may experience mild gastrointestinal irritation. The plant poses a low risk but can cause mild symptoms.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIngestion of Fumana laevipes by dogs may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant is not considered highly toxic but can cause discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicFumana laevipes contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's effects are generally not severe but can be unpleasant.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Fumana laevipes suitable for rock gardens?
A: Yes, it thrives in well-drained, rocky soils typical of rock gardens.
Q: Does Fumana laevipes require frequent watering?
A: No, it is drought-tolerant and prefers infrequent watering.
Q: Does Fumana laevipes attract pollinators?
A: Yes, its yellow flowers attract bees and butterflies.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cistaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 2–3 weeks during activ |
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