Elder-leaved Figwort Plant Care

Elder-leaved Figwort (Scrophularia sambucifolia) belongs to the Scrophulariaceae family within the Scrophularia genus. Elder-leaved Figwort is native to the Iberian Peninsula and Northwest Africa.

Elder-leaved Figwort displays an upright, bushy perennial growth habit, reaching up to 2 ft tall with a spread of approximately 1.5 ft. Elder-leaved Figwort produces small tubular flowers in shades of red, purple, or yellow.

Leaf size: approximately 4 inches.

Scrophularia sambucifolia requires watering every 7–10 days. Allow the top layer of soil to dry between waterings to prevent root rot. Reduce watering frequency during winter when growth slows.

Elder-leaved Figwort thrives in partial shade to full sun.

Scrophularia sambucifolia grows best at temperatures of 50–75°F. Elder-leaved Figwort prefers humidity levels of 40–60%.

Well-draining loamy soil with added compost for nutrients. Good drainage is essential for Elder-leaved Figwort to prevent waterlogging, which leads to root rot and fungal issues.

Feed Elder-leaved Figwort every 6 months during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced fertilizer diluted to the strength on the label.

Pause feeding in autumn and winter, when growth slows, and never fertilize dry soil — water first.

The PlantoScan app can remind you when to water and when to fertilize each plant.

Repot every 2-3 years in early spring. Choose a pot one size larger than the current container, and ensure it has drainage holes to allow excess water to escape.

Elder-leaved Figwort can be propagated through seeds, division of root ball. Similar propagation techniques also apply to scrophularia atrata plant care, which shares the same genus.

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Elder-leaved Figwort is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, whiteflies. Inspect the foliage regularly, especially along leaf undersides and stems. Treat infestations promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil to prevent spread.

Yellow leaves, brown tips or drooping? See common plant problems and how to fix them.

Elder-leaved Figwort grows outdoors in USDA Zone 12a. It survives winters down to planting zone 12a. Elder-leaved Figwort is native to the Iberian Peninsula and Northwest Africa. In cooler regions, grow Elder-leaved Figwort as a houseplant or bring it indoors before the first frost.