Orobanchaceae
Red Bartsia: Full Sun Plant
Odontites vernus
A hardy wild plant for natural meadows and wild gardens. It requires full sun, lean and well-drained soil, as well as host grasses to parasitize. Sow the seeds directly on-site in the fall or early spring — the plant manages best on its own.
Every 7 days
Direct sun
-10° - 25°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Red Bartsia?
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus) is a medium-care plant from the Orobanchaceae family. Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus) is an annual, hemi-parasitic meadow plant in the broomrape family. It features an upright, branched, and finely hairy stem with narrow, toothed leaves and small, pink to reddish tubular flowers that bloom from June to September. The plant partially parasitizes grass ro...
Red Bartsia grows up to 50cm, spread of 40cm, watering every 7 days, -10°C – 25°C, 30–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many popular species, Red Bartsia is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Red Bartsia?
TLDR: Red Bartsia needs Direct sun, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between -10-25°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Red Bartsia?
Requires very little water. Once established, the plant survives on natural rainfall and tolerates dry periods well — avoid overwatering.
How Much Light Does Red Bartsia Need?
Must be placed in full sun all day. Shade inhibits flowering and weakens the plant.
What Is the Best Soil for Red Bartsia?
Thrives in lean, well-drained soil. Avoid fertilized or nutrient-rich soil, which results in fewer flowers, and ensure host grasses are nearby so the plant can develop properly.
What Pot Should You Use for Red Bartsia?
Not suitable for pots. Best grown directly in a natural meadow alongside host grasses.
What Is Red Bartsia and Where Does It Come From?
Red Bartsia (Odontites vernus) is an annual, hemi-parasitic meadow plant in the broomrape family. It features an upright, branched, and finely hairy stem with narrow, toothed leaves and small, pink to reddish tubular flowers that bloom from June to September. The plant partially parasitizes grass roots and thrives in nutrient-poor meadows, pastures, and along field margins.
How Big Does Red Bartsia Grow?
TLDR: Red Bartsia can reach up to 50cm tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
50cm
Spread
40cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Plant Uses
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Medicinal Uses
- Historically used to treat toothaches
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Meaning & Symbolism
The genus name Odontites comes from the Greek word for tooth, referring to the plant's historical use as a remedy for toothaches.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
