Northern eyebright
Euphrasia micrantha · Orobanchaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant northern eyebright: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Euphrasia micrantha
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Plant type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn (June-October)
- Mature size
- 15 to 40 cm in height
- Hardiness
- Hardy, tolerates cold winters
- Origin
- Temperate and mountainous regions of Europe
- Growth
- Fast (annual cycle)
Care
Light exposure
Eyebright thrives in full sun or partial shade. It prefers bright locations but tolerates partial shadow. In mountains or cold regions, seek out a sunny exposure for optimal flowering.
Soil
This plant appreciates well-drained soil, poor to average, slightly acidic to neutral. It adapts to rocky or chalky substrates. Avoid overly rich or constantly damp soils, which promote rot.
Watering
Water moderately during prolonged dry spells. Once established, eyebright is undemanding and tolerates periods of water shortage. In pots, let the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
Fertilizing
Not demanding, this plant requires no specific fertilizer. A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient if you're growing it in pots or very poor soil.
Pruning and maintenance
No specific pruning required. Remove wilted or damaged parts to maintain a neat shape. Leave a few flowers to set seed for spontaneous resowing the following year.
Diseases and pests
Generally very resistant, eyebright rarely suffers from diseases. Excessive moisture can occasionally cause root rot. Prefer well-ventilated conditions and avoid overwatering.
Did you know?
Eyebright has long been called the "herb of sight" due to an old belief that it improved vision: this folkloric reputation, though unfounded, led the plant to be traditionally used in herbal infusions, notably during the Middle Ages and Renaissance.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.