Sticky Restharrow (Ononis viscosa)

Sticky Restharrow

Ononis viscosa

Sticky hairs coat its stems, a subtle textural beauty. Herbaceous perennial; common name: Sticky Restharrow.

Full sun
1–2/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Full sun to partial shade; tolerant of dry, sunny exposures and light afternoon shade in hot climates
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Watering Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm of soil dries; drought tolerant once established
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Temperature Hardy to mild frosts; prefers warm, dry growing conditions with minimal humidity
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Trifoliate oval leaflets covered in glandular sticky hairs
  • Flower: Pink to pale purple pea-like blooms in axillary clusters
  • Stem: Erect, branched stems densely coated in sticky glandular hairs
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil moderately moist during active growth; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed once monthly. Avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leggy, weak growth

Banana peel compost tea:Compost banana peels for 2–3 weeks, steep in water, dilute 1:20 for root drench; avoid raw peels to prevent pest infestations
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms to encourage extended flowering through early summer
  • Trim back leggy stems in early spring to promote compact, bushier growth
  • Remove damaged or diseased foliage promptly to maintain plant health
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: No listed toxicity to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects for human ingestion or contact

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental for rock gardens and dry borders; traditional mild diuretic medicinal use