Amaranthaceae
Burningbush (Bassia scoparia): Complete Care Guide
Bassia scoparia
Very easy to grow. Thrives in full sun with well-draining soil. Drought-tolerant once established. Water every 7 days. Fertilize monthly during the growing season. Light pruning helps maintain its compact, rounded shape.
Every 7 days
Direct sun
5ยฐ - 35ยฐC
30% - 50%
Categories
What is Burningbush?
Burningbush (Bassia scoparia) is a easy-care plant from the Amaranthaceae family. Burningbush (Bassia scoparia) is a fast-growing annual herb native to Eurasia. It forms a dense, symmetrical mound of fine, bright green foliage that turns brilliant red or purple in autumn, creating a spectacular seasonal display. Widely grown as an ornamental in gardens and borders.
Burningbush grows up to 1.5m, spread of 90cm, watering every 7 days, 5ยฐC โ 35ยฐC, 30โ50% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Burningbush tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Burningbush is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Burningbush?
TLDR: Burningbush needs Direct sun, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between 5-35ยฐC with 30-50% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Burningbush?
Water every 7 days, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Once established, the plant tolerates drought periods well. Avoid waterlogging to prevent root rot.
How Much Light Does Burningbush Need?
Requires full sun โ at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Place in an open, sunny location. In partial shade, growth will be slower and the form less compact.
What Is the Best Soil for Burningbush?
Prefers well-draining soil with a pH between 6.5 and 7.5. Add sand or perlite to improve drainage if needed. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture.
What Pot Should You Use for Burningbush?
Large outdoor containers or garden beds with good drainage. Not recommended for indoor cultivation.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
What Is Burningbush and Where Does It Come From?
Burningbush (Bassia scoparia) is a fast-growing annual herb native to Eurasia. It forms a dense, symmetrical mound of fine, bright green foliage that turns brilliant red or purple in autumn, creating a spectacular seasonal display. Widely grown as an ornamental in gardens and borders.
How to Propagate Burningbush?
Direct seeding
Sow in spring after frost risk has passed. Seeds germinate well at 18-25ยฐC. The plant self-seeds readily โ remove flowers before seed set to control spread.
- 1 Prepare soil with good drainage and pH between 6.5 and 7.5
- 2 Sow directly in the permanent location after the last frost
- 3 Cover seeds with about 0.5 cm of substrate
- 4 Keep soil slightly moist until germination
- 5 Thin seedlings to 30-60 cm spacing
Materials needed:
How Big Does Burningbush Grow?
TLDR: Burningbush can reach up to 1.5m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1.5m
Spread
90cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Ground Cover
Soil coverage
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Fun Facts
Originally cultivated in Eurasia for centuries as a forage and medicinal plant
The foliage transforms from green to brilliant red or purple in autumn, creating a striking seasonal display
It is considered invasive in several North American states due to its prolific self-seeding
Historically used as a broom plant in Asia โ the name scoparia means 'broom-like' in Latin
Frequently asked questions
How often should I water Burningbush?
Is Burningbush toxic to pets?
Can I grow Burningbush in a pot?
How do I prevent Burningbush from spreading?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | โ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | โ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | โ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | โ |
