Also known as Beggary · Drug Fumitory · Earthsmoke
Safety note: This plant may be toxic to humans and pets. See toxicity details.
Common Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis) is an annual herb with delicate, lobed leaves and small, pinkish-purple flowers. It thrives in disturbed soils and has a history of
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Cool to Moderate
50% intensity
Thrives in temperatures between 10-20°C.
Low
25% intensity
Minimal feeding required, once in spring.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | Yes 3/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Contains alkaloids, particularly sparteine, and is mildly toxic if ingested.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings, especially during hot weather. Reduce watering in winter when growth slows.
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Pruning is mainly for shaping and to encourage bushier growth. After flowering, trim back leggy stems to maintain a tidy appearance.
Remove any dead or damaged foliage promptly to prevent disease spread and promote new growth.
Easily propagated from seed sown in autumn or early spring. Can also be propagated by cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Seeds may benefit from a period of cold stratification before sowing.
Cuttings root readily in moist, well-draining soil.
Repotting is typically not a major concern for this short-lived perennial. If grown in a container, repot every 1-2 years in spring, using a well-draining potting mix.
Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one to avoid overwatering issues.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Common Fumitory (Fumaria officinalis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Ranunculales |
| Family | Papaveraceae |
| Genus | Fumaria |
| Species | Fumaria officinalis |
Similar in genus Fumaria
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
