Odontites vulgaris
Odontites vulgaris · Orobanchaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant odontites vulgaris: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Common name
- Eyebright
- Family
- Orobanchaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Adult height
- 20 to 50 cm
- Flowering
- April to September
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Exposure
- Full sun to partial shade
- Origin
- Europe, temperate zones
Care
Watering
Water moderately and regularly during dry periods to keep the soil slightly moist. Avoid excess water which would promote root rot. Once established, this plant tolerates relative drought well.
Light exposure
Choose a location in full sun for optimal flowering. Eyebright also tolerates partial shade, but the flower density will be reduced. Plant it in a bright, airy spot.
Soil and substrate
This plant thrives in well-drained, poor to average soil, even rocky or sandy. It adapts to almost all soil types as long as they don't retain excess water. No special enrichment is necessary.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend the flowering period and encourage branching. Cut back the plant lightly at the end of the season if it becomes sparse. This annual herbaceous plant doesn't require significant structural pruning.
Fertilizing
No fertilizer is generally necessary for this plant with modest needs. Naturally rich soil can even reduce flowering in favor of foliage. If needed, a light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is sufficient.
Diseases and pests
Generally very resistant, eyebright mainly fears excess moisture which can cause rot or fungal diseases. Ensure good air circulation and avoid watering the foliage. It's little affected by common garden pests.
Did you know?
Eyebright has long been used in traditional herbal medicine to support eye health, hence its historical association with improving vision. Its Latin name, Odontites, means "relating to teeth" in Greek, recalling its various traditional medicinal uses throughout Europe.
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.