Water
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during winter dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this plant dislikes soggy conditions. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues.
Also known as Barleria · Dog Bush · Porcupine-Flower
Porcupine Flower (Barleria prionitis) is a spiny shrub with bright yellow flowers. It is known for its medicinal properties and is often grown as an ornamental plant.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun to partial shade
75% intensity
Prefers bright, direct sunlight for best flowering, but tolerates some shade.
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
50% intensity
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 18-24°C. Protect from frost.
Moderate feeding during growing season
50% intensity
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks from spring to summer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water thoroughly when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Reduce watering during winter dormancy. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot, as this plant dislikes soggy conditions. Overwatering can lead to fungal issues.
Prune to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or leggy stems as needed. Light pruning after flowering can promote more blooms. Heavy pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in spring or summer. Dip cuttings in rooting hormone and plant in moist, well-draining soil.
Keep the soil consistently moist and the cuttings in a warm, bright location until established.
Repot every 1-2 years in spring, or when the plant becomes root-bound. Use a well-draining potting mix. Choose a pot that is slightly larger than the previous one.
This helps provide fresh nutrients and space for root growth.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Porcupine Flower (Barleria prionitis)
Where Porcupine Flower (Barleria prionitis) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Barleria |
| Species | Barleria prionitis |
Similar in genus Barleria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data