Asteraceae
gumweed: Aromatic Plant
Grindelia
Extremely hardy and drought-tolerant; requires full sun and well-draining soil to thrive. Avoid overwatering and high humidity which can lead to root rot.
Every 10 days
Direct sun
-15° - 38°C
20% - 60%
Categories
What is gumweed?
gumweed (Grindelia) is a easy-care plant from the Asteraceae family. Grindelia, commonly known as gumweed, is a genus of hardy perennials and shrubs native to the Americas. They are easily recognized by their bright yellow daisy-like flowers and the sticky, white resinous 'gum' that coats the flower buds and foliage. This resin serves as a natural defense against her...
gumweed grows up to 1.5m, spread of 100cm, watering every 10 days, -15°C – 38°C, 20–60% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, gumweed tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, gumweed is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for gumweed?
TLDR: gumweed needs Direct sun, watering every 10 days, and temperatures between -15-38°C with 20-60% humidity.
How Often Should You Water gumweed?
Water deeply but infrequently; allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
How Much Light Does gumweed Need?
Thrives in full, direct sunlight; at least 6-8 hours of sun per day is recommended for optimal resin production.
What Is the Best Soil for gumweed?
Prefers poor, sandy, or gravelly soils; rich organic matter is unnecessary and can cause leggy growth.
What Pot Should You Use for gumweed?
Large terracotta or unglazed clay pots if grown in containers to ensure rapid drainage.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 60 days
What Is gumweed and Where Does It Come From?
Grindelia, commonly known as gumweed, is a genus of hardy perennials and shrubs native to the Americas. They are easily recognized by their bright yellow daisy-like flowers and the sticky, white resinous 'gum' that coats the flower buds and foliage. This resin serves as a natural defense against herbivores and prevents water loss in arid environments.
How to Propagate gumweed?
Seed Sowing
- Cold stratification for 3-4 weeks can improve germination rates in some species.
- 1 Prepare Soil
Use a sandy, well-draining seed starting mix.
- 2 Sow Seeds
Press seeds lightly into the surface; they require light to germinate.
- 3 Maintain Moisture
Mist lightly until sprouts appear, then reduce watering.
Materials needed:
Root Division
- Ensure each division has a healthy portion of the taproot system.
- 1 Dig Up Plant
Carefully lift the root ball of a mature plant during dormancy.
- 2 Separate Crowns
Use a sharp knife to divide the root mass into sections with at least one bud.
- 3 Replant
Place divisions immediately into their new locations and water once.
Materials needed:
How Big Does gumweed Grow?
TLDR: gumweed can reach up to 1.5m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1.5m
Spread
1.0m
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Plant Uses
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Aromatic
Pleasant fragrance
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- Respiratory support
- Treatment for poison ivy rashes
- Expectorant
- Anti-inflammatory
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Resilience and protection due to its sticky resin and ability to grow in harsh conditions.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Field Maple | Easy | Bright indirect | 14d | ✓ |
| Silver Birch | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
| Common Blanketflower | Easy | Direct sun | 10d | ✓ |
| Cushion Bush | Easy | Direct sun | 14d | ✓ |
