Santolina is an easy to grow evergreen perennial perfect for xeriscaping, in a mixed perennial border, or grown with other Mediterranean herbs. They are hardy to USDA Zone 6 and bloom all summer long with fragrant musky foliage.
Narrow grey-green leaves with yellow button-like composite flowers.
Low mounds of fragrant, bright yellow to chartreuse, scale-like foliage. Little, pale yellow flowers. More dense growth habit than the S. chamaecyparissus.
Green leaves and tight yellow composite flower heads on slender stalks. The leaves somewhat resemble those of rosemary.
Varies daily, late April through October. Please contact us for current availability.
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Santolina
Common Name: Lavender Cotton
Origin: Native to western and central Mediterranean region.
Culture: Suited for hot, dry, full sun climates. Thrive in sandy, rocky, and infertile alkaline soils. However, will tolerate garden loam and well amended clay soils. Add pumice and sand to heavy clay soils to provide required drainage.
Maintenance: Once established, drought tolerant and a relatively easy care plant. To prevent plants from becoming leggy, prune in autumn to encourage new spring growth.
Pests & Diseases: Fairly pest and disease resistant. Susceptible to fungal disease in humidity and root rot if overwatered.
Propagation: After five years plants will have lived their lifespan and will need to be replaced. Can easily propagated from cuttings.
Uses: Dried leaves used in sachets and potpourris. Foliage historically used as insecticide. Can also be used medicinally on insect bites as pain relief. Flowers can be used in arrangements. Perfume oil is also extracted from leaves.
We have a wonderful selection of perennials year round, but if you are looking for a specific perennial we will have the best selection when it is in bloom around town. Note: Native plant pages will take you into the Native Plant section.
