Wigandia urens
TAXONOMY
FamilyBoraginaceae
GenusWigandia
Zone9
LEARN MORE
Plants of the World OnlineABOUT
Wigandia urens, commonly known as Caracus wigandia, is a large, fast-growing shrub native to Central and South America. It belongs to the Boraginaceae family and is known for its large, rough leaves and striking purple flowers. The plant can grow up to 3 meters tall and is often used in ornamental gardening for its dramatic foliage and blooms.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Cow-Itch
Ernstamra Scorpiodes
Hydrolea Auriculata
Hydrolea Caracassana
Hydrolea Scorpioides
Cohiba urens
Ernstamra caracasana
Ernstamra macrophylla
Ernstamra urens
Hydrolea urens
Wigandia caracasana
Wigandia caracasana f. viscosa
Wigandia caracasana var. calycina
Wigandia caracasana var. macrophylla
Wigandia caracasana var. viscosa
Wigandia darii
Wigandia kunthii
Wigandia kunthii var. intermedia
Wigandia kunthii var. macrophylla
Wigandia kunthii var. viscosa
Wigandia macrophylla
Wigandia peruviana
Wigandia scorpioides
Wigandia urens var. caracasana
Wigandia urens var. urens
Wigandia vigieri
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature20° C
Humidity60%
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
WANT MORE TIPS?
DETAILS
Care Instructions
Wigandia urens thrives in bright, direct sunlight and prefers moderate temperatures. It should be watered regularly but allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The plant enjoys moderate humidity and should be protected from frost. Regular pruning is necessary to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth.Soil
Wigandia urens prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be kept moderately moist but not waterlogged. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied during the growing season to support healthy growth. Fertilize every 4-6 weeks for best results.Repotting
Repotting is necessary when the plant outgrows its container. This is typically done in the spring. Choose a pot that is one size larger and ensure it has good drainage. Gently remove the plant from its current pot, loosen the roots, and place it in the new pot with fresh soil.Propagation
Wigandia urens can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. For cuttings, take a healthy stem cutting in the spring or early summer, dip it in rooting hormone, and plant it in a well-draining soil mix. Keep the soil moist and place the cutting in a bright, indirect light until roots develop.Pruning
Pruning is essential for Wigandia urens to maintain its shape and encourage new growth. Prune in the late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or damaged branches and trim back overgrown areas to promote a bushier appearance.Toxicity
Wigandia urens is not known to be toxic to pets or humans. However, its leaves are covered in fine hairs that can cause skin irritation upon contact, so handling with gloves is recommended.Additional
Wigandia urens is a striking addition to any garden with its large leaves and vibrant flowers. It can be used as a focal point in landscape design. Ensure it has enough space to grow and spread, as it can become quite large.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
Make Every Plant Smart
Plant Monitor
STAYS IN YOUR PLANT
Accurately measures the core metrics of your plant – soil moisture, light, temperature and humidity - as well as compound metrics such as Vapor Pressure Deficit (VPD) and Growing Degree Days (GDD).
Shop Now
