PlantFun
Plant Needs
Sunlight
Dappled woodland shade; avoid direct midday sun which can scorch the delicate foliage
Watering
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; avoid allowing the root zone to dry out completely
Temperature
Hardy to cold winter temperatures; tolerate mild summer heat when provided with adequate shade
Characteristics
- Leaf: Fern-like, blue-green compound leaves form low basal rosettes
- Flower: Solitary, white to pale pink blooms shaped like a steer's head with drooping "ears"
- Stem: Slender upright stems bear single flowers above the foliage rosette
Care Guide
Watering
Keep soil evenly moist; apply mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature
Fertilization
Light, diluted organic feed once monthly. Use nitrogen-rich, low-phosphorus feed to promote foliage growth
Composted leaf mold tea：Dilute fully decomposed leaf mold in water at a 1:20 ratio for root drenching; avoid raw leaf material to prevent fungal growthPruning
- Remove spent flower stems after blooming to redirect energy to foliage growth
- Trim back yellowing foliage in late autumn as the plant enters dormancy
- Clear debris from the base of the plant to reduce risk of fungal disease
Toxicity
Warning: this plant may be toxic.
Pets & Humans
Pets: ASPCA: Toxic; ingestion can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and lethargy
Humans: Contains isoquinoline alkaloids; ingestion may cause mild gastrointestinal upset including nausea and vomiting
Garden Uses & Culture
Culture: N/A
Usage: Ornamental wildflower for native woodland gardens and shaded rock gardens
