Euphrasia officinalis
Euphrasia officinalis · Orobanchaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant euphrasia officinalis: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Eyebright, Eye brightener
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- June to September
- Adult height
- 15 to 40 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, small and serrated
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15 °C)
- Origin
- Temperate and Mediterranean Europe
Care
Sunlight
Eyebright prefers full sun or partial shade. It thrives in lawns, meadows and open areas where it benefits from natural light. Good light conditions promote flowering and vigour.
Soil
This plant adapts to various soils, from poor to moderately fertile, and even acidic. It tolerates dry, lean soils well. Natural drainage is appreciated; avoid soils that are constantly waterlogged as this would encourage rot.
Watering
Eyebright is undemanding in terms of water once established. Water moderately during prolonged dry spells, particularly during the growth phase. In natural conditions or in meadows, it is satisfied with regular rainfall.
Pruning and maintenance
No pruning is necessary. This herbaceous plant develops naturally and self-seeds spontaneously. You can allow the flowers to fade in place to enable self-seeding and ensure the plant's presence in following years.
Fertiliser
Eyebright requires no fertiliser. It thrives on poor soils and prefers unfertilised environments. Excessive nitrogen would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Health and pests
This plant is generally robust and rarely subject to disease. Ensure good drainage to prevent fungal rot from excess moisture. Aphids and whiteflies are seldom problematic on this hardy species.
Did you know?
Eyebright carries the old nickname of 'Eye brightener' because it has long been traditionally used in folk herbal medicine to support eye health, although these properties remain to be scientifically demonstrated. Its scientific name 'Euphrasia' comes from Greek and means 'cheerfulness', reflecting ancient beliefs in its beneficial properties.
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.