Gromwell (Lithospermum officinale)

Also known as: European stoneseed, European gromwell

The bushy plant known as gromwell (Lithospermum officinale) is not actually that common. It grows yellowish flowers and prefers alkaline soil. The name Gromwell comes from an Old French word, Gromil, and refers to the plant's seeds, with "mil" meaning "millet."

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Gromwell

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

80 cm

Spread

20-50 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

6 mm

Flower Color

White Green Yellow

Images of Gromwell

Quickly Identify Gromwell

Look for rough, hairy stems, lanceolate to ovate leaves that are rough on both sides, and small, white flowers arranged in racemes. The seeds are small, hard, and shiny, resembling tiny stones.

Scientific Classification of Gromwell

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Boraginales

Family

Borage

Genus

Gromwells

Species

Gromwell

Planting and Growing of Gromwell

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Partial sun

Sunshine Duration

6-12 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 Gromwell?

For Lithospermum officinale, it is essential to water deeply but not too frequently. The soil should be moist to a depth of around 5 cm but allow it to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Gromwell? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Gromwell? ›

How to save an overwatered Gromwell? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Gromwell?

Sunlight Requirements: Partial sun

Duration of light: 4-6 hours

Lithospermum officinale benefits from partial sunlight, about 4-6 hours daily. This balance optimizes the plant's vitality, ensuring robust foliage and successful blooms.

What is the best light for Lithospermum officinale? ›

How can I ensure my plant gets enough light? ›

What are the benefits of proper lighting? ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Gromwell?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Lithospermum officinale thrives best in an ideal temperature range of 60°F to 75°F. This range ensures that the plant is neither stressed by cold nor by excessive heat, allowing for optimal growth and health. When kept within this temperature band, the plant can efficiently perform photosynthesis and maintain vibrant foliage.

What Soil is Best for Gromwell?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Lithospermum officinale flourishes best in well-drained soil, as it prevents waterlogging and allows roots to access oxygen. This is crucial to avoid root rot and to encourage healthy plant growth. The plant prefers moderately fertile soil. High fertility can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowering. Balancing nutrients ensures ideal growth and an abundance of its small, white flowers. Lithospermum officinale tends to thrive in slightly alkaline conditions, benefiting from a soil pH closer to 7. Such conditions optimize nutrient availability and promote robust plant health.

How to Fertilize Gromwell?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Lithospermum officinale prefers a balanced nutrient intake. Use a diluted liquid fertilizer at half the strength of what is recommended on the label for most green plants. For slow-release types, a small handful around the base is typically adequate.

How to Prune Gromwell?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Start by sterilizing your pruning shears to prevent the spread of disease. Identify any dead, damaged, or diseased stems and remove them at the base. Shape the plant by cutting back overgrown sections to desired proportions. Make sure to cut above a node to stimulate new growth. Regularly check the interior branches to ensure good air circulation, which helps in preventing fungal infections. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Gromwell plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early summer

Choose a well-draining soil mix, preferably with a combination of perlite and peat moss, to enhance aeration and retain adequate moisture for seed germination.

Sow seeds lightly on the soil surface and cover them just enough with a thin layer of soil. Ensure they receive indirect sunlight to facilitate germination.

Select a healthy stem from the parent plant and cut a 4-6 inch piece just below a node. Remove any lower leaves and immerse the cut end in rooting hormone before planting.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Gromwell plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Look for signs like roots growing through pot drainage holes, soil that dries out too quickly, or diminished plant health. These indicate it's time for a new, bigger pot to give roots more space to grow.

Select a pot that is 2 inches larger in diameter than the current one to give roots room to expand. Prefer one with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which promotes healthy growth and prevents root rot.

Choose well-draining loamy soil rich in organic matter. This type of soil retains the right amount of moisture while providing essential nutrients, helping the plant to thrive in its new environment.

Toxicity

Ingestion

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.