Richweed (Collinsonia canadensis)

Also known as: Citronella Horsebalm, Ox-Balm, Hardhack

Richweed, belonging to the mint family, is recognized for its lemon-scented flowers that bloom in summer. Native American tribes were familiar with this plant long before European colonization. It thrives in shady, dense forests and is a magnet for birds, moths, and bumblebees due to its nectar.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Richweed

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

61 cm to 1.2 m

Spread

30 cm to 90 cm

Leaf Color

Green Blue

Flower Size

2.5 cm

Flower Color

White Yellow Green Gold

Images of Richweed

Quickly Identify Richweed

Tall square stems grow up to 3-4 feet (90-120 cm).

Large, ovate to heart-shaped leaves, up to 6 inches (15 cm) across.

Small, tubular yellowish flowers in tiered whorls, striking contrast with dark green leaves.

Fragrant yellow flowers with fringed lower lip, in branched spikes.

Oppositely arranged leaves, oval, toothed, vibrant green upper surface, paler underside.

Scientific Classification of Richweed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Lamiales

Family

Mint

Genus

Horsebalms

Species

Richweed

Planting and Growing of Richweed

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

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 Richweed?

For Collinsonia canadensis, an ideal watering amount is around 300 milliliters per session. This plant prefers soil that is consistently moist but not waterlogged, so ensuring the top inch of soil is dry before re-watering is vital.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Richweed? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Richweed? ›

How to save an overwatered Richweed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Richweed?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun, Full shade

Duration of light: 3 to 6 hours daily

Collinsonia canadensis thrives in partial sun to full shade conditions, which mirrors its native woodland habitat. This balance in light ensures healthy foliage and flowering by providing sufficient energy for photosynthesis without overexposure risks.

Question: How much sunlight does Collinsonia canadensis ideally need? ›

Question: Can it survive under full sun conditions? ›

Question: What seasonal adjustments are necessary for its light conditions? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Richweed?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Collinsonia canadensis, also known as Canadian horsebalm, is between 60°F to 70°F. This temperature range is optimal for its growth, providing it with the necessary warmth and humidity that mimic its natural habitat in the understory of deciduous forests. Maintaining such temperatures ensures healthy foliage and robust flowering.

What Soil is Best for Richweed?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Collinsonia canadensis thrives in soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. This balance ensures that the plant's roots can absorb enough water to remain healthy and vibrant, preventing wilting during dry periods. The plant benefits significantly from nutrient-rich soil, which provides essential elements and minerals for growth and vitality. This richness supports robust flowering and foliage development, enhancing the plant's aesthetic appeal in gardens. Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot, which can occur in overly saturated soils. Well-drained loam or sandy loam ensures excess water can escape, promoting a healthy root system and reducing the risk of fungal infections.

How to Fertilize Richweed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Collinsonia canadensis, it's important to apply fertilizers sparingly. For liquid fertilizer, mix it to a quarter of the recommended strength. For slow-release fertilizers, use approximately a tablespoon per plant, ensuring it's well spread around the drip line to avoid root burn.

How to Prune Richweed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Use sharp, clean pruning shears to avoid damaging the plant and to ensure precise cuts. Clean tools also prevent the transfer of plant diseases. Begin by removing any dead or withered stems at the base to allow new growth to fill the space. Next, trim back leggy or unwanted growth by cutting just above a leaf node to encourage branching. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Richweed plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring

Begin by filling seed trays with a well-draining potting mix, and sprinkle seeds evenly on the surface. Cover lightly with soil and water gently to keep the soil moist. Place the tray in a warm, bright location.

Carefully dig up the mature Collinsonia canadensis plant, using a hand trowel. Separate the roots into several smaller clumps, ensuring each clump has healthy roots and shoots. Replant these divisions in a prepared area with similar growing conditions.

Once seedlings have grown several true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger pots or outdoors. Be gentle when handling seedlings, using a hand trowel to lift them carefully, maintaining the integrity of the root system.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Richweed plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Collinsonia canadensis typically needs repotting when the roots outgrow the current pot, visibly poking through the drainage holes or circling the soil's surface. Spring is ideal for repotting because it aligns with the plant's natural growth cycle, ensuring resilience and quicker adaptation to the new pot.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with at least one drainage hole. This ensures excess water can conveniently flow out, preventing root rot. Terra cotta pots are excellent choices as they offer breathability, helping maintain the moisture balance essential for Collinsonia canadensis.

Opt for a well-draining, loamy soil mix enriched with organic matter. This type of soil retains necessary moisture without waterlogging and supplies vital nutrients that foster lush growth and robust development. Such soil conditions mimic the plant’s natural woodland habitat, promoting healthy growth.