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Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Oenothera curtiflora
Also known as : Downy Gaura, Lizard tail gaura
Velvetweed, or Oenothera curtiflora, is a drought-tolerant succulent with pink or white blooms and fuzzy leaves. It is highly attractive to birds and butterflies. Deadhead its pretty flowers early to prevent extensive self-seeding.
Hardiness Zones
Hardiness Zones
9
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Key Facts About Velvetweed

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Attributes of Velvetweed

Lifespan
Annual
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
All year around
Plant Height
20 cm to 3 m
Spread
1.2 m
Leaf Color
Green
Blue
Flower Size
5 mm
Flower Color
White
Pink
Leaf type
Deciduous
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃

Scientific Classification of Velvetweed

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distribution

Distribution of Velvetweed

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Habitat of Velvetweed

Moist to dry sandy, Rocky, Loamy soils, Roadsides, Fields, Riparian areas, Prairies, Desert scrub
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Velvetweed

Velvetweed is native to parts of North America and has spread to various regions across the globe. It has found a foothold in environments on multiple continents, including both temperate and tropical areas in the Eastern Hemisphere. Velvetweed thrives in a range of settings outside its original habitat, illustrating its adaptability to diverse ecological conditions.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
habit
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Questions About Velvetweed

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Watering Watering Watering
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
What is the best way to water my Velvetweed?
To water Velvetweed, you can use a garden hose with a spray nozzle, a watering can, or just about any other common watering tool. Generally, Velvetweed is not too picky about how they receive their water, as they can live off of rainwater, tap water, or filtered water. Often, you should try not to water this plant from overhead, as doing so can damage the leaves and flowers and may lead to disease as well. At times, the best method for watering this plant is to set up a drip irrigation system. These systems work well for Velvetweed as they apply water evenly and directly to the soil. For one Velvetweed that grows in a container, you can use a similar watering approach while changing the tools you use. To water a container-grown Velvetweed, use a cup, watering can, or your tap to apply water directly to the soil.
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What should I do if I water my Velvetweed too much or too little?
The remedy for underwatering Velvetweed is somewhat obvious. When you notice that your plant lacks moisture, simply begin watering it on a more regular basis. The issue of overwatering can be a much more dire situation, especially if you fail to notice it early. When your Velvetweed is overwatered, it may contract diseases that lead to its decline and death. The best way to prevent this outcome is to choose a proper growing location, one that receives plenty of sunlight to help dry the soil and has good enough drainage to allow excess water to drain rather than pooling and causing waterlogged soils. If you overwater your Velvetweed that lives in a pot, you may need to consider changing it to a new pot. Your previous container may not have contained soil with good drainage or may not have had sufficient drainage holes. As you repot your overwatered Velvetweed, make sure to add loose soils and to use a pot that drains efficiently.
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How often should I water my Velvetweed?
Velvetweed needs water regularly throughout the growing season. Beginning in spring, you should plan to water this plant about once per week. As the season presses on and grows warmer, you may need to increase your watering rate to about two to three times per week. Exceeding at this rate can be detrimental to your Velvetweed. With that said, you should also ensure that the soil in which your Velvetweed grows remains relatively moist but not wet, regardless of how often you must water to make that the case. Watering Velvetweed that lives in a pot is a bit different. Generally, you'll need to increase your watering frequency, as the soil in a pot can heat up and dry out a bit faster than ground soil. As such, you should plan to water a container-grown Velvetweed a few times per week in most cases, versus just once per week for an in-ground plant.
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How much water does my Velvetweed need?
There are a few different ways you can go about determining how much water to give to your Velvetweed. Some gardeners choose to pick their water volume based on feeling the soil for moisture. That method suggests that you should water until you feel that the first six inches of soil have become moist. Alternatively, you can use a set measurement to determine how much to water your Velvetweed. Typically, you should give your Velvetweed about two gallons of water per week, depending on how hot it is and how quickly the soil becomes dry. However, following strict guidelines like that can lead to overwatering if your plant requires less than two gallons per week for whatever reason. When growing Velvetweed in a container, you will need to use a different method to determine how much water to supply. Typically, you should give enough water to moisten all of the layers of soil that have become dry. To test if that is the case, you can simply stick your finger in the soil to feel for moisture. You can also water the soil until you notice a slight trickle of excess water exiting the drainage holes of your pot.
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How can I tell if i'm watering my Velvetweed enough?
It can be somewhat difficult to avoid overwatering your Velvetweed. On the one hand, these plants have relatively deep roots that require you to moisten the soil weekly. On the other hand, Velvetweed are plants that are incredibly susceptible to root rot. Along with root rot, your Velvetweed may also experience browning as a result of overwatering. Underwatering is far less likely for your Velvetweed as these plants can survive for a while in the absence of supplemental watering. However, if you go too long without giving this plant water, it will likely begin to wilt. You may also notice dry leaves.
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How should I water my Velvetweed through the seasons?
You can expect your Velvetweed’s water needs to increase as the season moves on. During spring, you should water about once per week. Then, as the summer heat arrives, you will likely need to give a bit more water to your Velvetweed, at times increasing to about three times per week. This is especially true of Velvetweed that grow in containers, as the soil in a container is far more likely to dry out faster than ground soil when the weather is warm. In autumn, while your Velvetweed is still in bloom, it may need a bit less water as the temperature has likely declined, and the sun is no longer as strong as it was in summer.
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How should I water my Velvetweed at different growth stages?
Velvetweed will move through several different growth stages throughout the year, some of which may require more water than others. For example, you will probably start your Velvetweed as a seed. While the seed germinates, you should plant to give more water than your Velvetweed will need later in life, watering often enough to maintain consistent soil moisture. After a few weeks, your Velvetweed will grow above the soil and may need slightly less water than at the seedling phase. Then, once this plant is mature, you can begin to use the regular watering frequency of about once per week. As flower development takes place, you may need to give slightly more water to aid the process.
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What's the difference between watering Velvetweed indoors and outdoors?
There are several reasons why most Velvetweed grow outdoors rather than indoors. The first is that these plants typically grow to tall. The second reason is that Velvetweed needs more daily sunlight than most indoor growing locations can provide. If you are able to provide a suitable indoor growing location, you may find that you need to give your Velvetweed water a bit more often than you would in an outdoor growing location. Part of the reason for this is that indoor growing locations tend to be a lot drier than outdoor ones due to HVAC units. The other reason for this is that soil in containers can dry out relatively quickly as well compared to soil in the ground.
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More Info on Velvetweed Growth and Care

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Basic Care Guide
Lighting
Full sun
Velvetweed thrives best when engulfed in a profusion of sunlight but can endure less than complete exposure. Uncompromised sunlight promotes its robust growth while a moderate reduction in solar exposure might slower its development. Its native terrain conditions have predisposed it to this solar preference. Both overly shaded or intensely exposed circumstances may lead to unhealthy plant conditions.
Best Sunlight Practices
Temperature
0 - 38 ℃
Velvetweed is naturally adaptable to temperatures within the range of 68 to 95°F (20 to 35℃). Native to temperate habitats, it generally prefers warm climates. Seasonal temperature adjustments may be required, depending on geographical location.
Temp for Healthy Growth
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Plants Related to Velvetweed

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Waffle plant
Waffle plant
Waffle plant (Strobilanthes alternata) is a popular ornamental plant, prized mostly for the attractive leaves with purplish undersides. This tropical plant can generally be bought in plant nurseries worldwide, usually in hanging baskets. It is mainly cultivated as a decorative plant for indoor gardens, porches, and patios.
Pigeon pea
Pigeon pea
Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) is a woody perennial shrub that will grow to 4 m tall. Flowers attract butterflies and bees. Edible seeds, seedpods, stems and shoots. A nitrogen-fixer, it improves the quality of the soil where it is planted. Grows in full sun with moist, well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and will grow in a variety of soil conditions.
Japanese stiltgrass
Japanese stiltgrass
Japanese stiltgrass is an invasive grass species that thrives in low light areas. It is capable of rooting at each node and usually grows to about 1.07 m tall. Japanese stiltgrass produces flowers late in the summer and then produces seeds. The most common way to control japanese stiltgrass is with glyphosate, however, some experiments are being done to see if goats can be used for natural control.
Indian blanket
Indian blanket
Indian blanket is a wildflower of meadows and prairies growing daisy-like flowers with a russet-colored central disk encircled by red rays with yellow tips. Pollinators such as bees and butterflies are drawn to the nectar produced by this plant. Mass planting produces a spectacular combination of brilliant reds and yellows that looks breathtaking in landscapes.
Henbane
Henbane
Henbane is a poisonous annual or biennial plant that is native to the Mediterranean. The plant is entirely covered with greasy hairs. Its seeds spread from mid-spring to early fall.
Dame's rocket
Dame's rocket
Dame's rocket (Hesperis matronalis) was introduced to North America from Europe as an ornamental flower. It spread far through the region and is now considered an invasive species for woodlands and prairies in many states. Unlike most plants, the flowers and seed pods of dame's rocket grow at the same time.
Poison ivy
Poison ivy
In pop culture, poison ivy is a symbol of an obnoxious weed because, despite its unthreatening looks, it gives a highly unpleasant contact rash to the unfortunate person who touches it. Still, it is commonly eaten by many animals, and the seeds are a favorite with birds. The leaves turn bright red in fall. Its sister species, Western poison ivy (Toxicodendron rydbergii), is not considered to be invasive in the United States, but is noxious in Australia and New Zealand.
Pokeweed
Pokeweed
Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.
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Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Velvetweed
Oenothera curtiflora
Also known as: Downy Gaura, Lizard tail gaura
Velvetweed, or Oenothera curtiflora, is a drought-tolerant succulent with pink or white blooms and fuzzy leaves. It is highly attractive to birds and butterflies. Deadhead its pretty flowers early to prevent extensive self-seeding.
Hardiness Zones
Hardiness Zones
9
more
plant_info

Key Facts About Velvetweed

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Feedback
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Attributes of Velvetweed

Lifespan
Annual
Plant Type
Herb
Bloom Time
All year around
Plant Height
20 cm to 3 m
Spread
1.2 m
Leaf Color
Green
Blue
Flower Size
5 mm
Flower Color
White
Pink
Leaf type
Deciduous
Ideal Temperature
20 - 35 ℃
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Scientific Classification of Velvetweed

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distribution

Distribution of Velvetweed

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Habitat of Velvetweed

Moist to dry sandy, Rocky, Loamy soils, Roadsides, Fields, Riparian areas, Prairies, Desert scrub
Northern Hemisphere
South Hemisphere

Distribution Map of Velvetweed

Velvetweed is native to parts of North America and has spread to various regions across the globe. It has found a foothold in environments on multiple continents, including both temperate and tropical areas in the Eastern Hemisphere. Velvetweed thrives in a range of settings outside its original habitat, illustrating its adaptability to diverse ecological conditions.
distribution map
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Potentially invasive
Exotic
No species reported
question

Questions About Velvetweed

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Feedback
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Watering Watering Watering
Sunlight Sunlight Sunlight
Temperature Temperature Temperature
What is the best way to water my Velvetweed?
more
What should I do if I water my Velvetweed too much or too little?
more
How often should I water my Velvetweed?
more
How much water does my Velvetweed need?
more
How can I tell if i'm watering my Velvetweed enough?
more
How should I water my Velvetweed through the seasons?
more
How should I water my Velvetweed at different growth stages?
more
What's the difference between watering Velvetweed indoors and outdoors?
more
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More Info on Velvetweed Growth and Care

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Basic Care Guide
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Plants Related to Velvetweed

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Lighting
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Indoor
Outdoor
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Requirements
Full sun
Ideal
Above 6 hours sunlight
Partial sun
Tolerance
About 3-6 hours sunlight
Watch how sunlight gracefully moves through your garden, and choose spots that provide the perfect balance of light and shade for your plants, ensuring their happiness.
Essentials
Velvetweed thrives best when engulfed in a profusion of sunlight but can endure less than complete exposure. Uncompromised sunlight promotes its robust growth while a moderate reduction in solar exposure might slower its development. Its native terrain conditions have predisposed it to this solar preference. Both overly shaded or intensely exposed circumstances may lead to unhealthy plant conditions.
Preferred
Tolerable
Unsuitable
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Artificial lighting
Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
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Indoor plants require adequate lighting for optimal growth. When natural sunlight is insufficient, particularly in winter or in less sunny spaces, artificial lights offer a vital solution, promoting faster, healthier growth.
1. Choose the right type of artificial light: LED lights are a popular choice for indoor plant lighting because they can be customized to provide the specific wavelengths of light that your plants need.
Full sun plants need 30-50W/sq ft of artificial light, partial sun plants need 20-30W/sq ft, and full shade plants need 10-20W/sq ft.
2. Determine the appropriate distance: Place the light source 12-36 inches above the plant to mimic natural sunlight.
3. Determine the duration: Mimic the length of natural daylight hours for your plant species. most plants need 8-12 hours of light per day.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Insufficient Light in %s
Velvetweed, a plant that thrives in full sunlight, is commonly grown outdoors with ample sunlight. When cultivated indoors with inadequate light, it may exhibit subtle symptoms of light deficiency.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Small leaves
New leaves may grow smaller in size compared to the previous ones once they have matured.
Leggy or sparse growth
The spaces between leaves or stems of your Velvetweed may become longer, resulting in a thin and stretched-out appearance. This can make the plant look sparse and weak, and it may easily break or lean due to its own weight.
Faster leaf drop
When plants are exposed to low light conditions, they tend to shed older leaves early to conserve resources. Within a limited time, these resources can be utilized to grow new leaves until the plant's energy reserves are depleted.
Slower or no new growth
Velvetweed enters a survival mode when light conditions are poor, which leads to a halt in leaf production. As a result, the plant's growth becomes delayed or stops altogether.
Lighter-colored new leaves
Insufficient sunlight can cause leaves to develop irregular color patterns or appear pale. This indicates a lack of chlorophyll and essential nutrients.
Solutions
1. To ensure optimal growth, gradually move plants to a sunnier location each week, until they receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Use a south-facing window and keep curtains open during the day for maximum sunlight exposure and nutrient accumulation.2. To provide additional light for your plant, consider using artificial light if it's large or not easily movable. Keep a desk or ceiling lamp on for at least 8 hours daily, or invest in professional plant grow lights for ample light.
Symptoms of Excessive light in %s
Velvetweed thrives in full sun exposure and can tolerate intense sunlight. With their remarkable resilience, symptoms of sunburn may not be easily visible, as they rarely suffer from it.
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(Symptom details and solutions)
Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a condition where the plant's leaves lose their green color and turn yellow. This is due to the breakdown of chlorophyll from excessive sunlight, which negatively affects the plant's ability to photosynthesize.
Sunscald
Sunscald occurs when the plant's leaves or stems are damaged by intense sunlight exposure. It appears as pale, bleached, or necrotic areas on the plant tissue and can reduce the plant's overall health.
Leaf Curling
Leaf curling is a symptom where leaves curl or twist under extreme sunlight conditions. This is a defense mechanism used by the plant to reduce its surface area exposed to sunlight, minimizing water loss and damage.
Wilting
Wilting occurs when a plant loses turgor pressure and its leaves and stems begin to droop. Overexposure to sunlight can cause wilting by increasing the plant's water loss through transpiration, making it difficult for the plant to maintain adequate hydration.
Leaf Scorching
Leaf scorching is a symptom characterized by the appearance of brown, dry, and crispy edges or patches on leaves due to excessive sunlight. This can lead to a reduction in photosynthetic capacity and overall plant health.
Solutions
1. Move your plant to the optimal position where it can receive abundant sunlight but also have some shade. An east-facing window is an ideal choice as the morning sunlight is gentler. This way, your plant can enjoy ample sunlight while reducing the risk of sunburn.2. It is recommended to trim off any completely dehydrated or withered parts of the plant.
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Temperature
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Requirements
Ideal
Tolerable
Unsuitable
Just like people, each plant has its own preferences. Learn about your plants' temperature needs and create a comforting environment for them to flourish. As you care for your plants, your bond with them will deepen. Trust your intuition as you learn about their temperature needs, celebrating the journey you share. Lovingly monitor the temperature around your plants and adjust their environment as needed. A thermometer can be your ally in this heartfelt endeavor. Be patient and gentle with yourself as you explore your plants' temperature needs. Cherish your successes, learn from challenges, and nurture your garden with love, creating a haven that reflects the warmth of your care.
Essentials
Velvetweed is naturally adaptable to temperatures within the range of 68 to 95°F (20 to 35℃). Native to temperate habitats, it generally prefers warm climates. Seasonal temperature adjustments may be required, depending on geographical location.
Regional wintering strategies
Velvetweed has some cold tolerance and generally does not require any additional measures when the temperature is above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. However, if the temperature is expected to drop below {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}, it is necessary to take some temporary measures for cold protection, such as wrapping the plant with plastic film, fabric, or other materials. Once the temperature rises again, the protective measures should be removed promptly.
Important Symptoms
Symptoms of Low Temperature in Velvetweed
Velvetweed has moderate tolerance to low temperatures and thrives best when the temperature is above {Suitable_growth_temperature_min}. During winter, it should be kept above {Tolerable_growing_temperature_min}. When the temperature falls below {Limit_growth_temperature}, the leaves may start to droop. In mild cases, they can recover, but in severe cases, the leaves will wilt and eventually fall off.
Solutions
Trim off the frost-damaged parts. Prior to encountering low temperatures again, wrap the plant with materials such as non-woven fabric or cloth, and construct a wind barrier to protect it from the cold wind.
Symptoms of High Temperature in Velvetweed
During summer, Velvetweed should be kept below {Suitable_growth_temperature_max}. When the temperature exceeds {Tolerable_growing_temperature_max}, the color of the leaves becomes lighter, the leaf tips may become dry and withered, the leaves may curl, and the plant becomes more susceptible to sunburn.
Solutions
Trim away the sunburned and dried-up parts. Move the plant to a location that provides shade from the midday and afternoon sun, or use a shade cloth to create shade. Water the plant in the morning and evening to keep the soil moist.
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