Water
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This drought-tolerant plant prefers drier conditions and is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Lotus spartioides, commonly known as Poor-Man's Weed, is an annual herb native to the Mediterranean region, adapted to dry conditions.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full sun
100% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Drought-tolerant
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry out completely between waterings.
Well-drained, Sandy, Loam
50% intensity
Moderate to warm
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 18-24°C. Tolerates some frost once established.
Low feeder
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring, or not at all.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. This drought-tolerant plant prefers drier conditions and is susceptible to root rot if overwatered. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead or damaged stems at any time. Avoid heavy pruning, as this can stress the plant.
Propagate by seeds sown in spring or by semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require scarification or stratification for better germination. Cuttings should be rooted in a well-draining medium.
Repot only when absolutely necessary, typically every 2-3 years, preferably in spring before new growth begins. Use a gritty, well-draining potting mix. Handle the roots gently to minimize disturbance.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Poor-Man's Weed (Lotus spartioides)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Lotus |
| Species | Lotus spartioides |
Similar in genus Lotus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
