White Buttercup (Turnera subulata)

White Buttercup

Turnera subulata

Its bright white blooms open like tiny cups at dawn, closing by midday. Perennial flowering herb; common name: White Buttercup.

Full sun
2–3/week
Beginner
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Plant Needs

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Sunlight Prefers direct morning sunlight and partial afternoon shade to avoid leaf scorch; blooms most profusely in full sun
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Watering Water when the top 2 cm of soil feels dry; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot
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Temperature Thrives in warm tropical to subtemperate temperatures; protect from frost below 10°C
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Characteristics

  • Leaf: Narrow linear to lanceolate leaves with serrated margins, glossy medium green
  • Flower: Five-petaled white blooms with yellow central stamens, 2–3 cm diameter, open only in sunlight
  • Stem: Slender, slightly hairy green stems branching from the basal crown
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Care Guide

Watering

Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water 2–3 times weekly

Fertilization

Diluted balanced liquid feed every 2 weeks. Cease fertilization in winter when plant growth slows

Banana peel tea:Soak 1 chopped banana peel in 1 liter of water for 3 days; strain and use as a root drench to avoid nutrient buildup
Pruning
  • Deadhead spent blooms promptly to encourage continuous flowering throughout the growing season
  • Trim leggy basal stems in early spring to promote bushier, more compact growth
  • Remove yellowing or damaged leaves to maintain plant health and improve airflow
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Toxicity

Warning: this plant may be toxic.

Pets & Humans

Pets: ASPCA: Non-toxic to cats

Humans: No documented toxic effects on humans

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Garden Uses & Culture

Culture: N/A

Usage: Ornamental garden plant; attracts pollinators including bees and butterflies