Spiny Restharrow (Ononis spinosa)

Spiny Restharrow

Ononis spinosa

It bears spiny stems and pink pea-like blooms, a tough prairie beauty. Perennial herbaceous shrub; common name: spiny restharrow.

Full sun
1–2/week
Moderate
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerates exposed, windy growing conditions
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Watering Allow soil to fully dry between waterings; highly drought-tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to -15°C; withstands hot, dry summers and cool temperate winters
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate, oval leaflets with serrated margins and soft hairy texture
  • Flower: Pea-like pink to pale purple blooms, clustered in axillary racemes
  • Stem: Woody at base, branched, covered in sharp defensive spines
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil slightly moist during active growth; avoid waterlogging

Fertilization

Diluted balanced feed once every 4 weeks. Discontinue feeding in autumn to prepare for dormancy

Eggshell powder top dressing:Sprinkle a thin layer around the base of the plant; avoid direct contact with stems to prevent tissue burn
Pruning
  • Remove dead or damaged stems in early spring to encourage new growth
  • Trim overcrowded branches to improve airflow and maintain a compact bushy form
  • Cut back spent flower heads to promote prolonged blooming through the growing season
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: No documented toxicity to cats per ASPCA

Humans: No known toxicity to humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Traditional medicinal use for urinary tract support; ornamental for rock gardens and wildflower meadows