Whitebuttons (Anacyclus clavatus)

Also known as: Longwort

Anacyclus clavatus, also known as whitebuttons, is a plant in the daisy family. Its common name, "whitebuttons," arises from the appearance of its small, button-like white flowers. This species is indigenous to regions in North Africa and Europe.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Whitebuttons

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

20 cm to 40 cm

Spread

Approximately 0.2 to 0.4 meters

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2 cm to 3 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow

Images of Whitebuttons

Quickly Identify Whitebuttons

Look for daisy-like flowers with white petals and a yellow center, finely divided and feathery leaves, and a strong, camphor-like scent when crushed.

Scientific Classification of Whitebuttons

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Anacyclus

Species

Whitebuttons

Planting and Growing of Whitebuttons

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-6 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Whitebuttons?

When it comes to watering Anacyclus clavatus, it is essential to ensure the soil is moist but not waterlogged. This plant thrives with moderate watering. You should aim for about 100 ml per watering, just enough to wet the top layer of the soil without causing excess water to pool at the bottom.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Whitebuttons? ›

What should I do if my Whitebuttons is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Whitebuttons? ›

How to save an overwatered Whitebuttons? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Whitebuttons?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Anacyclus clavatus prefers full sun to partial sun conditions. The plant benefits from receiving direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours daily, which enhances flower production, vigor, and overall health, helping it to resist pest and disease pressures effectively.

What is the ideal amount of sunlight for Anacyclus clavatus? ›

How can I optimize lighting for my Anacyclus clavatus? ›

What benefits does ideal lighting provide Anacyclus clavatus? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Whitebuttons?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature range for Anacyclus clavatus cultivation is between 60°F and 75°F. This range provides the plant with optimal conditions for healthy growth, ensuring its physiological processes can occur without stress. Temperatures within this range allow for efficient photosynthesis and nutrient absorption, promoting a robust and vibrant plant.

What Soil is Best for Whitebuttons?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Anacyclus clavatus thrives in well-drained soils, which prevent waterlogging that could suffocate the roots. Proper drainage ensures oxygen availability, fostering healthy root development and vigorous growth. This plant prefers soils with moderate nutrient levels. Overly rich soils might promote excessive leaf growth at the expense of blooms, so balanced fertility is key for abundant flowering. While Anacyclus clavatus can tolerate a range of pH levels, it shows a preference for slightly alkaline conditions. This helps optimize nutrient uptake and enhances overall plant health.

How to Fertilize Whitebuttons?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Anacyclus clavatus, commonly known as the Spanish Chamomile, requires moderate fertilization. Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Apply approximately 100-150 ml per plant during the growing season, adjusting the amount based on plant size and soil fertility.

How to Prune Whitebuttons?

Pruning Time: Spring

Begin by assessing the plant for any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and flowers. Use your pruning shears to cut these parts off close to the base. After removing the damaged material, aim to give the plant a balanced shape. Cut back long stems to create an even, rounded appearance that promotes even growth. Trim back up to one-third of last year’s growth to stimulate new blooms and strong framework for next year’s flowers. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Whitebuttons plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Spring

Begin by filling seed trays or pots with potting mix and dampening it slightly. Sow the Anacyclus clavatus seeds on the surface and cover lightly with extra potting mix to ensure adequate exposure to light for germination.

Place the trays in a location with bright, indirect sunlight or under grow lights, ensuring around 12 to 14 hours of light per day. Proper lighting ensures healthy seedling development and prevents leggy growth.

Keep the potting mix consistently moist by misting the surface with water, but avoid waterlogging, which can lead to fungal diseases. Regular monitoring is crucial to maintain optimal moisture levels.

How to Repot Whitebuttons plant?

Repotting frequency: Annually

Anacyclus clavatus needs repotting when its roots outgrow the current pot, usually noticed as roots emerging from the drainage holes or when the plant’s growth seems stunted. Another signal is when the soil no longer retains moisture, drying out rapidly after watering.

Choose a pot with adequate drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, ideally one size larger than the current pot. A terracotta pot is beneficial as it allows for breathability and avoids excess moisture retention, promoting healthy root development.

Opt for a well-draining sandy soil mix tailored for Mediterranean plants. This type of soil mimics the plant's natural habitat, ensuring adequate drainage while retaining necessary nutrients, reducing the risk of root rot and promoting robust growth.