Contents
Description
Santolina Chamaecyparissus, also known as Gray Santolina or Lavender Cotton, is a small evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the Asteraceae family and is known for its aromatic leaves and yellow button-like flowers that bloom in the summer. It is commonly used as a low hedge or border plant in gardens and is also known for its medicinal properties.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain: | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Phylum: | Spermatophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Santolina |
Appearance
Santolina Chamaecyparissus is a small, bushy shrub that typically grows up to 2 feet tall and wide. Its leaves are small, narrow, and gray-green in color, with a slightly hairy texture. The plant produces small, yellow button-like flowers that bloom in the summer and are highly aromatic. The flowers are followed by small, brown, seed-like fruits. The plant has a compact, rounded shape and is often used as a low hedge or border plant in gardens.
Care Guide
Santolina Chamaecyparissus is a low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. It prefers well-drained, sandy soil and full sun exposure. It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering, but should be watered deeply when the soil is dry. It is also important to avoid over-fertilizing the plant, as this can cause it to become leggy and lose its shape. Pruning should be done in the spring to maintain the plant’s desired shape and size.Santolina Chamaecyparissus is hardy in USDA zones 6-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Santolina Chamaecyparissus is generally a pest-free plant, but can be susceptible to spider mites and aphids. These pests can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant is also susceptible to root rot if it is grown in poorly-drained soil. To prevent root rot, make sure the soil is well-draining and avoid over-watering the plant.
Habitat
Santolina Chamaecyparissus is native to the Mediterranean region, where it grows in dry, rocky soils. It is commonly found in open, sunny areas and is often used in traditional Mediterranean gardens. It has been naturalized in other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is often used as a low hedge or border plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Santolina Chamaecyparissus deer-resistant?
A: Yes, Santolina Chamaecyparissus is considered to be deer-resistant.
Q: Can Santolina Chamaecyparissus be grown in containers?
A: Yes, Santolina Chamaecyparissus can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and full sun exposure.
Q: Are there any special considerations when pruning Santolina Chamaecyparissus?
A: Yes, it is important to prune Santolina Chamaecyparissus in the spring to maintain its desired shape and size. It is also important to avoid pruning it too heavily, as this can cause it to become leggy and lose its shape.
Q: Is Santolina Chamaecyparissus drought-tolerant?
A: Yes, Santolina Chamaecyparissus is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering.
Related Plants
- Santolina rosmarinifolia
- Santolina virens
- Santolina chamaecyparissus ‘Nana’
- Santolina pinnata
References
- “Santolina Chamaecyparissus.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=279704. Accessed 17 June 2021.
- “Santolina Chamaecyparissus.” Gardening Know How, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/santolina/santolina-lavender-cotton.htm. Accessed 17 June 2021.
- “Santolina Chamaecyparissus.” Plant Care Today, plantcaretoday.com/santolina-chamaecyparissus. Accessed 17 June 2021.
