Small-flowered Othonna

What you'll need:

Small-flowered Othonna seeds or a young plant (available at nurseries or online)

A pot with drainage holes (about 6-8 inches wide is ideal for one plant)

Well-draining soil mix (cactus or succulent soil works well, or you can mix regular potting soil with sand)

• Gravel or small stones (optional, for better drainage)
• A bright spot in your home or garden

When to start:

Small-flowered Othonna loves warmth and sunlight. Spring is the best time to plant it, but since it's a succulent-like plant, you can also start planting indoors during other seasons as long as you provide enough light.

Choosing a good spot:

This plant thrives in bright light but should avoid intense afternoon sun, especially in hot climates. If growing indoors, place it near a south-facing window where it gets plenty of indirect sunlight. Outdoors, a spot with morning sun and some afternoon shade works perfectly.

Tip: If you're unsure about the soil, mix in extra sand or perlite to make sure water drains easily — soggy roots are this plant’s worst enemy!

If using seeds:

1. Fill your pot with a well-draining soil mix, leaving about an inch from the top.
2. Sprinkle the seeds lightly on the surface of the soil — don't bury them too deep, just press them gently into the soil.
3. Lightly sprinkle a thin layer of sand or fine gravel over the seeds.
4. Water sparingly with a spray bottle to moisten the soil without soaking it.
5. Place the pot in a warm, bright location, but avoid direct sunlight until the seeds sprout (which usually takes 1-2 weeks).

If using a young plant:

1. Fill your pot halfway with your soil mix.
2. Carefully remove the plant from its nursery container and loosen the roots slightly if they're compacted.
3. Place the plant in the new pot and fill in around it with more soil, making sure the base of the plant is level with the soil surface.
4. Gently pat down the soil around the plant and add a thin layer of gravel or decorative stones on top for extra drainage.
5. Water lightly after planting.

Tip: When planting, handle the roots carefully — they’re sensitive to disturbance!

Watering:

• Small-flowered Othonna doesn’t like too much water. Let the soil dry out completely between waterings.
• During spring and summer (its active growing season), water every 1-2 weeks, depending on how quickly the soil dries.
• In fall and winter, water even less — maybe once a month or when the soil feels very dry.
• Always water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves.

Light requirements:

• This plant loves bright, indirect light. A sunny windowsill or a spot that gets morning sun is perfect.
• If grown outdoors, protect it from harsh afternoon sun, especially in summer, to prevent leaf burn.

Fertilizing tips:

• You don’t need to fertilize often. Once or twice during the growing season (spring/summer) is enough.
• Use a diluted liquid fertilizer made for cacti or succulents — these are gentle and won’t overwhelm the plant.

Other care tips:

• Rotate the pot every few weeks to ensure all sides get equal sunlight, which helps the plant grow evenly.
• If you notice any yellowing or mushy leaves, it might be a sign of overwatering. Cut back on watering and let the soil dry out completely before trying again.

Tip: If you live in a humid area, consider keeping the plant in a breezy spot to prevent moisture buildup around the leaves.

Since Small-flowered Othonna is primarily grown for its attractive foliage and tiny, daisy-like flowers, "harvesting" isn’t really applicable here. However, you can propagate it by taking cuttings!

How to take cuttings:

1. Use clean scissors or a sharp knife to cut a healthy stem, about 2-3 inches long.
2. Let the cutting sit out for a day or two so the cut end calluses over.
3. Plant the cutting in a small pot with well-draining soil, water lightly, and place it in a bright spot.
4. After a few weeks, the cutting should develop roots, and you’ll have a brand-new plant!

Pruning tips:

• Regularly trim leggy or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth.
• Prune off any dead or unhealthy leaves to keep the plant looking tidy and to promote new growth.

Tip: The cuttings you take can be shared with friends or used to expand your own collection — easy propagation is one of the best things about this plant!

Q: Why are the leaves on my Small-flowered Othonna turning yellow?

A: Yellowing leaves are often a sign of overwatering. Make sure the soil is drying out completely between waterings, and reduce how often you water. It could also indicate poor drainage, so check that your pot has good drainage holes.

Q: Can I grow Small-flowered Othonna indoors?

A: Absolutely! As long as it gets plenty of bright, indirect light, it will thrive indoors. Near a sunny window is ideal. Just be careful not to overwater, as indoor environments can sometimes hold onto moisture longer.

Q: My plant looks leggy and stretched out. What’s wrong?

A: This usually happens when the plant isn’t getting enough light. Try moving it closer to a brighter window or supplementing with a grow light. Regular pruning will also help maintain a fuller shape.

Q: How do I know when to repot my Small-flowered Othonna?

A: If you see roots growing out of the drainage holes or the plant seems too big for its current pot, it’s time to move it to a slightly larger pot. Repot in the spring, using fresh, well-draining soil.

Q: Is Small-flowered Othonna safe around pets?

A: Yes, it’s non-toxic to cats and dogs, making it a pet-friendly houseplant. However, it’s always a good idea to discourage pets from chewing on any plants just to be safe.