Lavatera Silver Leafed Barnsley

2-3 Litre Pot

• Position: Full sun, partial shade
• Soil: Well drained
• Growth rate: Fast
• Flowering period: Summer
• Hardiness: H5
• Eventual height: 1.5 – 2.5m
• Eventual spread: 1 – 1.5m

Lavatera ‘Silver Leafed Barnsley’, also known as ‘Tree Mallow’, is a captivating semi evergreen shrub known for its stunning silver-green foliage and profusion of delicate blooms. This plant features soft, silvery leaves that provide a beautiful contrast to its flowers, adding an elegant touch to any garden. During the blooming season, which is typically throughout the Summer, it produces an abundance of large, funnel-shaped flowers that start white with deep pink eyes and mature to a subtle pale pink.

Growing to a height of about 2.5 metres and spreading up to 1.5 metres, this Lavatera cultivar is ideal for borders, hedging, or as a standalone specimen plant. It thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained soil, though it is relatively adaptable to various soil types. It is also drought-tolerant once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for gardeners seeking a resilient yet striking addition to their landscape.

Overall, Lavatera Silver Leafed Barnsley is cherished for its long blooming period, ease of care, and the unique aesthetic appeal it brings with its silvery foliage and charming flowers.

How to care for your Lavatera Silver Leafed Barnsley

• Choose a sunny spot where the plant will receive at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. It can tolerate partial shade but will flower best in full sun.
• Plant in well-drained soil. While it can adapt to various soil types, a slightly alkaline to neutral soil pH is ideal.
• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish a deep root system.
• Once established, Lavatera ‘Silver Leafed Barnsley’ is drought-tolerant. Water during prolonged dry spells, but avoid overwatering.
• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in Spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilisers, which can encourage leaf growth at the expense of flowers.
• Prune in late Winter or early Spring before new growth starts.
• Cut back the previous year’s growth to about 6-12 inches above the ground. This helps maintain a compact shape and encourages vigorous blooming.
• Remove spent flowers during the blooming season to encourage continuous flowering.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the stem to prevent rot.
• In windy areas, provide support with stakes to prevent the stems from breaking.
• Pairs well with other sun-loving perennials and annuals, adding a splash of color and texture to mixed borders.

By following these care guidelines, your Lavatera Silver Leafed Barnsley will remain healthy and produce an abundance of beautiful flowers throughout the growing season.