Stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens)
Also known as: Cape khakiweed, Lesser samphire
An example of an invasive annual herb that fits your description is the stinkwort (Dittrichia graveolens). Typically reaching heights of up to 91 cm, it produces yellow, radial-shaped flowers in late summer. This plant has become a problematic invasive species in California, posing a threat to wine cultivation and is classified as a noxious weed in several areas.
In This Article
Attributes of Stinkwort
Lifespan
Annual
Plant Type
Herb
Plant Height
1.3 m
Spread
N/A
Leaf Color
Green
Flower Size
1 cm
Flower Color
Yellow Red Burgundy Gold
Images of Stinkwort
Quickly Identify Stinkwort
1
Long lance-shaped leaves, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, growing opposite along the stem.
2
Small flower heads with yellow ray florets in flat-topped arrays, surrounded by green bracts.
3
Glandular, sticky stem exuding a strong, pungent odor when crushed.
4
Flowers with single yellow heads, 0.2 to 0.3 inches (0.5 to 0.8 cm) in diameter, blooming late summer to early winter.
5
Achene fruits approximately 0.08 inches (2mm) with a light brown oval shape and distinctive bristle ring.
Scientific Classification of Stinkwort
Phylum
Vascular plants
Class
Dicotyledons
Order
Asterales
Family
Daisy
Genus
Dittrichia
Species
Stinkwort
Planting and Growing of Stinkwort
Care Difficulty
Easy
Watering Schedule
Every 2 days
Sunlight Requirements
Full sun
Sunshine Duration
6-10 hours
Ideal Temperature
60-80℉
Soil Type
Potting Mix, Peat Mix
Soil pH
6.5-7.5
Fertilizer Type
Balanced
Pruning Season
Spring, Summer
Pruning Area
Branches, Leaves
Pruning Frequency
2 times a year
Repotting Season
Spring
Pot Type
Plastic, Ceramic
How to Water Stinkwort?
Dittrichia graveolens prefers a moderate watering strategy. Ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged, providing approximately 500 milliliters each time. The principle is to maintain consistent moisture while avoiding stagnant water, as excess water can lead to root issues.
What are the symptoms of an underwatered Stinkwort?
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What should I do if my Stinkwort is not getting enough water?
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What are the symptoms of an overwatered Stinkwort?
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How to save an overwatered Stinkwort?
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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Stinkwort?
Dittrichia graveolens thrives in full to partial sun, needing 6-8 hours of light. Full sunlight ensures optimal photosynthetic rates, boosting growth healthily, whereas partial sun accommodates light variability without losing vigour.
Optimal Light Location
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Light Adjustment Techniques
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Benefits of Adequate Sunlight
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What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Stinkwort?
Dittrichia graveolens thrives best within a temperature range of 60°F to 80°F. This range ensures that the plant's metabolic processes can occur efficiently, supporting healthy growth and optimal flowering.
What Soil is Best for Stinkwort?
Dittrichia graveolens thrives in soils with good drainage. Ensuring the soil allows excess water to escape easily helps prevent root rot and other water-related issues, ultimately promoting healthy plant growth. While this plant is quite adaptable, it performs best in nutrient-rich soils that support its growth. Having access to essential nutrients boosts its vigor, resilience, and overall health. Although it prefers well-drained soils, a certain level of moisture retention is beneficial during dry periods. This balance helps sustain the plant during its active growth phases.
How to Fertilize Stinkwort?
For Dittrichia graveolens, fertilizing requires a careful approach. A balanced 10-10-10 liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength is typically used, applying about 100 milliliters at the base of the plant every two weeks. This ensures the plant receives the nutrients it needs without over-fertilizing, which can damage plant roots.
How to Prune Stinkwort?
Start by inspecting the plant for any diseased or damaged branches. Use sharp, clean pruning shears to remove these sections first. Then, trim back the outer growth by cutting just above a leaf node to shape the plant and promote bushier growth. This will help maintain a compact form and encourage healthier foliage.
How to Propagate Stinkwort plant?
1
Choose healthy and mature seeds from Dittrichia graveolens. Ensure seeds are free from pests and disease, and have a good germination potential. It's advised to source seeds from a reputable supplier.
2
Sow the seeds thinly on the surface of moistened potting soil, then lightly cover them with a thin layer of soil. This allows light penetration which is crucial for germination.
3
Water the seeds gently using a spray bottle to avoid displacing them. Ensure the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. Maintaining consistency in watering is vital for seedling development.
How to Repot Stinkwort plant?
1
Dittrichia graveolens shows signs of needing repotting when its roots start poking through the drainage holes, or its growth appears stunted despite proper care. Ideally, repot during its active growing seasons, spring or autumn, when the plant can recover and establish in new soil conditions more effectively.
2
Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one to provide space for root growth without overwhelming the plant. Ensure it has sufficient drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which could lead to root rot, thus promoting healthy root development.
3
Choose a well-draining sandy soil mix, enriched with organic matter. This type of soil prevents excess moisture retention while providing the necessary nutrients, mimicking the plant's natural habitat, and ensuring vigorous and healthier growth.
Toxicity of Stinkwort
Is Stinkwort toxic to humans?
The stinkwort is a toxic plant that presents a spectrum of toxicity ranging from mild to severe. Coming into contact with this plant can lead to contact dermatitis, skin irritation, and allergic reactions in certain individuals. It is believed that every part of the plant possesses toxic properties, although the leaves and stems are particularly noted for their heightened toxicity. Common symptoms associated with skin dermatitis due to stinkwort exposure include redness, itching, blisters, swelling, and localized pain. Given its potential to irritate the skin, the stinkwort is likely unsafe for human consumption.
WARNING
The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.
