Dove weed (Croton setigerus)

Also known as: Turkey Mullein, Doveweed

Turkey Mullein, also known as Dove weed, is an invasive species commonly found in southern lawns. It features thick, dark green leaves and small bluish flower clusters. Despite being attractive to turkeys and doves due to its seeds, its foliage is toxic to animals.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Dove weed

Lifespan

Annual

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

2.5 cm to 20 cm

Spread

90 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1 cm to 2 cm

Flower Color

Yellow Green

Images of Dove weed

Quickly Identify Dove weed

Croton setigerus can be identified by its grayish-green, fuzzy leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The plant has a strong scent and releases seeds in small capsules.

Scientific Classification of Dove weed

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Malpighiales

Family

Spurge

Genus

Rushfoils

Species

Dove weed

Planting and Growing of Dove weed

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 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 Dove weed?

When watering Croton setigerus, it is advisable to pour approximately 250 ml of water each time. The goal is to moisten the soil thoroughly without turning it soggy. This conservatively sized amount ensures that the roots receive adequate hydration without risk of root rot, allowing the soil to absorb water efficiently.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Dove weed? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Dove weed? ›

How to save an overwatered Dove weed? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Dove weed?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6-8 hours daily

Croton setigerus thrives in a light range of full sun to partial sun. Ideal lighting ensures vibrant foliage colors, healthy growth, and resistance to pests, enhancing the plant's overall appearance and vitality.

Question 1: What is the ideal amount of sunlight for Croton setigerus? ›

Question 2: How can I ensure my Croton setigerus receives adequate light indoors? ›

Question 3: What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting conditions? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Dove weed?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

For Croton setigerus to thrive, maintaining an ideal temperature range is crucial. The optimal temperature for growing this plant ranges from 60°F to 75°F. Such temperatures ensure the plant's metabolic processes function efficiently and promote robust growth and vibrant foliage. In this range, the enzymes that drive the plant's biochemistry operate near their peak efficiency, promoting ideal growth conditions.

What Soil is Best for Dove weed?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Croton setigerus thrives in well-drained soil that prevents waterlogging and allows roots to breathe effectively. Ensuring good drainage is crucial, as it minimizes the risk of root rot and provides ideal growth conditions, promoting vigorous plant health and vibrant foliage. A nutrient-rich soil enhances Croton setigerus's growth by supplying essential nutrients. Adding organic matter like compost or aged manure improves soil fertility and structure, ensuring that the plant receives balanced nutrition, resulting in lush, optimal development. The soil should have moderate moisture retention to maintain consistent hydration without excess. This balance supports Croton setigerus's water needs, contributing to healthy surface structure and minimizing stress during periods of drought or intense heat.

How to Fertilize Dove weed?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Croton setigerus, use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half the recommended strength. For liquid fertilizer, apply approximately 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. Over-fertilizing could lead to nutrient burn, while under-fertilization may not provide adequate nutrients.

How to Prune Dove weed?

Pruning Time: Spring, Autumn

Begin by removing any dead, yellow, or damaged leaves which can drain the plant's resources. Use clean cuts close to the main stem, without damaging the healthy parts of the plant. Trim back overgrown branches to maintain the desired shape. Follow the natural growth pattern of Croton setigerus, preserving its unique form while ensuring adequate airflow between branches. Cut back leggy growth, which can encourage new shoots to form, leading to a fuller and bushier appearance. Prune just above a leaf node to direct growth in a suitable direction.

How to Propagate Dove weed plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Start by soaking Croton setigerus seeds in warm water for 24 hours to soften their hard exterior. This step helps to speed up germination, making it easier for the seeds to sprout successfully.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut a 4-6 inch section just below a node. The cutting should have at least two leaves. Using rooting hormone on the cut end can promote root development.

For seeds, plant them about a quarter-inch deep in seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. For cuttings, insert the base into moist soil, ensuring it is stable and upright.

How to Repot Dove weed plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Repotting Croton setigerus becomes necessary when you notice roots emerging from the drainage holes, or if the soil dries out very quickly after watering. This indicates that the roots have filled the pot and there's little soil left to retain moisture. Spring and early summer are the optimal times as the plant is entering its active growth period, allowing it to recover swiftly.

Select a pot that is just one size larger than the current one. This prevents the plant from sitting in too much soil, which can retain water and lead to root rot. A pot with drainage holes is non-negotiable, ensuring excess water can escape easily. This balance maintains healthy root development and prevents waterlogged conditions.

Choose a well-drained sandy soil mix to ensure excellent drainage for Croton setigerus. This mix replicates its natural environment, preventing soil compaction and encouraging oxygen flow to the roots. Adequate drainage is crucial to avoid water accumulation which can cause root diseases.

Toxicity of Dove weed

Is Dove weed toxic to humans?

While this plant is not classified as technically toxic to humans by any reputable source, it may induce mild to moderate skin irritation in certain individuals upon contact. The stems and leaves are adorned with thick, bristle-like hairs that can lead to undesirable or painful skin reactions, including itching, burning sensations, redness, or swelling. Besides this, there are no additional recognized harmful effects on humans; however, ingesting the stems and leaves might also result in irritation of the mouth and throat due to the presence of these bristle-like hairs.

Is Dove weed toxic to cat?

Dove weed possesses a moderate toxicity level for cats. Felines could inadvertently ingest parts of the plant, leading to poisoning. Every part of the plant is toxic, thus ingestion poses a significant threat. Cats that are exposed to dove weed may show symptoms of physical discomfort, health issues, or distress. If poisoning is suspected, it is crucial to seek urgent veterinary assistance to guarantee a swift and proper reaction to the consumption of dove weed.

Is Dove weed toxic to dog?

The plant species known as dove weed is regarded as having moderate toxicity for dogs. Any part of this plant can be harmful to dogs if ingested, as it possesses toxicity throughout its entirety. When dogs consume dove weed, they may display various signs of poisoning. Symptoms might include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or more serious health issues, depending on the quantity consumed. Due to the risks associated with dove weed, it is essential for dog owners to closely monitor their pets and restrict their access to this plant. If a dog accidentally ingests any part of dove weed, seeking immediate veterinary assistance is vital to effectively manage the poisoning and lessen any negative health impacts.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

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Learn More About Dove weed Diseases

Anthracnose Bacterial Leaf Spot Bacterial Soft Rot Bacterial Wilt Black Spot Chemical Injury Crown Gall Cyst Nematode Damping-off Downy Mildew Drought Stress Fusarium Wilt Gray Mold Leaf Curl Leaf Spot Mosaic Nutrient Deficiency Nutrient Toxicity Powdery Mildew Root Rot Root-knot Nematode Rusts Sooty Mold Spider Mites Temperature Stress Thrips Damage White Mold

Learn More About Dove weed

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