Shrubby restharrow (Ononis fruticosa)

Also known as: Ononis, Spiny Restharrow

The shrub, characterized by its branched and woody stems, reaches a height of 30 to 100 cm. Its leaves are composed of three narrow, toothed leaflets, with two stipules at the base of the petiole that envelop the stem. The flowers, which are purple-pink, appear in clusters of two or three at the stem's apex. Each flower has five free petals: the upper petal (standard) is upright and veined, while the two lateral petals (wings) overlap the two lower petals.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Shrubby restharrow

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Shrub

Plant Height

Up to 1 meter

Spread

Approximately 1 meter

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

1-2 cm

Flower Color

Purple Pink

Images of Shrubby restharrow

Quickly Identify Shrubby restharrow

To identify Ononis fruticosa, look for its characteristic spines and small, pink to purple flowers. The leaves are typically trifoliate, with small leaflets.

Scientific Classification of Shrubby restharrow

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Fabales

Family

Legume

Genus

Ononis

Species

Shrubby restharrow

Planting and Growing of Shrubby restharrow

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 2 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

4-8 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 Shrubby restharrow?

Ononis fruticosa, also known as shrub restharrow, should be watered with approximately 500 milliliters each time. This amount ensures that the soil is moist but not overly saturated, providing a consistent environment that mimics its natural habitat. Aim to wet the soil thoroughly and allow excess water to drain away, but do not let the plant sit in standing water.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Shrubby restharrow? ›

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

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Shrubby restharrow? ›

How to save an overwatered Shrubby restharrow? ›

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Shrubby restharrow?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Ononis fruticosa thrives best when exposed to full sunlight to partial sunlight for 6 to 8 hours daily. Ideal light conditions promote robust growth, abundant flowering, and healthy foliage.

Preferred Light Levels ›

How to Achieve Ideal Lighting ›

Benefits of Ideal Lighting ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Shrubby restharrow?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

Ononis fruticosa thrives best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. This range ensures optimal growth rates and health of the plant. Falling within this range, the plant can photosynthesize efficiently, develop proper leaf structure, and resist common diseases. The consistent warm temperatures facilitate metabolic processes that promote blooming and overall vitality.

What Soil is Best for Shrubby restharrow?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Calcareous soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Ononis fruticosa thrives best in well-drained soils to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Ensuring proper drainage bolsters root health and promotes vigorous growth. This plant benefits significantly from soils rich in organic matter, providing essential nutrients that encourage lush foliage and vibrant blooms. While Ononis fruticosa prefers well-drained soil, it also benefits from moderate moisture levels to sustain steady growth and flower production.

How to Fertilize Shrubby restharrow?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

Ononis fruticosa, also known as the Shrubby Restharrow, requires a balanced fertilization approach. Use a balanced 10-10-10 NPK liquid fertilizer. When applying, ensure that each plant receives around 10-20 milliliters of fertilizer mixed with water. This amount supports healthy growth and flowering, but avoid exceeding 20 milliliters as it could lead to nutrient imbalances.

How to Prune Shrubby restharrow?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Begin by examining the plant for any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Removing these ensures the plant directs energy to healthy growth. Trim branches selectively to create a balanced shape. Cut just above a bud that faces the desired growth direction to encourage outward and even growth. Remove any densely packed inner branches to promote air circulation within the plant, which helps reduce the risk of fungal diseases. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Shrubby restharrow plant?

Propagate Time: Early spring, Late spring, Early summer

Scarify the seeds by gently rubbing them with sandpaper. This helps in breaking the seed dormancy and promotes quicker germination.

Select healthy stems from a mature Ononis fruticosa plant. Cut just below a node, making sure each cutting is about 4-6 inches long.

Use a mixture of sand and loam. This ensures the mixture is free-draining, which is crucial for preventing rot while seeds and cuttings establish roots.

How to Repot Shrubby restharrow plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Ononis fruticosa reveals its need for repotting when you notice roots creeping out of the drainage holes or the soil drying out unusually fast. These signs indicate the plant has outgrown its current pot. Seasonal changes in root behavior during growth periods like spring and autumn also warrant a repotting session. Maintaining optimal growth conditions by repotting keeps the plant healthy and thriving.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one, ensuring it has ample drainage holes. A clay or terracotta pot is ideal, as it allows the soil to dry out between waterings, which is crucial for Ononis fruticosa's roots. This not only prevents root rot but also supports aeration, promoting healthier root growth and stability for the plant.

Opt for a well-drained, sandy soil mix that maintains the balance of moisture and aeration necessary for Ononis fruticosa. The sandy texture prevents waterlogging, a condition this plant is susceptible to. Quality soil encourages robust root development, minimizing stress post-repotting and aiding in nutrient absorption.