Santolina Chamaecyparis Incana

2-3 Litre Pot

• Position: Full sun
• Soil: Well drained
• Growth rate: Slow
• Flowering period: July – August
• Hardiness: H5
• Eventual height: 0.1 – 0.5m
• Eventual spread: 0.5 – 1m

Santolina Incana, also known as ‘Lavender Cotton’, is a beautiful and fragrant, rounded, evergreen shrub that grows to a height of 0.5 metre and a spread of 1 metre.

One of the most striking features of this Santolina is its foliage, which is a silvery-grey colour and has a distinctive texture. The leaves are narrow and finely divided, giving the plant a feathery appearance that is highly attractive. In the Summer, the plant produces small, yellow flowers that are held above the foliage on thin stems. These are highly fragrant and are often used in pot pourri and other fragrant preparations.

This is a highly adaptable plant that is tolerant of a wide range of growing conditions. It prefers a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil, but it can also tolerate poor soil and dry conditions. It is also highly drought-resistant and does not require frequent watering.

This plant is commonly used in gardens as a low hedge or border plant, where its silvery foliage and fragrant flowers can add interest and texture to the landscape. It is also highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to any garden that supports wildlife.

Overall, this is a highly desirable plant that combines visual appeal with a range of practical uses, making it a great choice for gardeners of all levels of experience. With proper care and attention, this shrub can provide years of beauty and enjoyment in any landscape.

How to care for your Santolina Incana

• Planting: Choose a location that receives full sun and has well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the plant, and add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve its nutrient content. Plant the shrub at the same depth as it was growing in its container, and water thoroughly after planting.
• Watering: It is drought-tolerant and does not require frequent watering. Water deeply once a week during the plant’s first year of growth, and thereafter only during extended periods of drought.
• Fertilising: Does not require fertilisation, but can benefit from an annual application of a balanced, slow-release fertiliser in the Spring to promote healthy growth.
• Pruning: Prune in late Winter or early Spring to maintain its shape and encourage healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged wood, and trim back any old or weak growth.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

By following these basic care guidelines, you can keep your Santolina Incana healthy and looking beautiful year-round.