Bethencourtia palmensis
Care, watering, light and tips for Bethencourtia palmensis on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Asteraceae
- Difficulty: Demanding
- Watering: every 10 days
- Light: Full sun
- Temperature: 0–35 °C
About Bethencourtia palmensis
Bethencourtia palmensis, known as 'turgayte', is a perennial shrub endemic to La Palma with a dense, rounded habit. Its leaves are small, lanceolate, and a greyish-green color, often with a slightly pubescent texture. It is ideal for rockeries, xerophytic gardens, or as an ornamental potted plant, adding a wild and resilient touch.
Native range
Canary Islands, Spain
Care tips
It requires full sun exposure for optimal growth and abundant flowering. Watering should be moderate, allowing the substrate to dry out completely between waterings, as it is very sensitive to excess moisture. Use a well-drained substrate, preferably sandy or with good mineral content. Avoid waterlogging at all costs, as it is the most common cause of root rot in this species.
How to save a dying Bethencourtia palmensis
- Warning signs
- Yellow or wilting leaves, soft stems, sparse or no flowering. Mealybugs may be present.
- First aid
- Check watering and drainage. Prune dry or damaged stems. Isolate if pests. Repot if root-bound.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or lack of light. Severe mealybug infestation also fatal.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if acted upon quickly. Recovery is slow but possible if roots are not entirely rotted.