Santolina Chamaecyparissus

Santolina Chamaecyparissus

Why Buy Me?

• Aromatic, silvery foliage
• Bright yellow flowers
• Grows well in most conditions

Growing Conditions

Light:
Full sun is essential. Requires at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily for compact growth and best flowering.

Soil:
Well-drained, sandy or gritty soil. Thrives in poor to moderately fertile soil with neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Avoid rich or clay-heavy soils, which can cause root rot.

Exposure:
Best in an open, sunny position with good air circulation. Tolerates wind and coastal exposure.

Drought Tolerance:
High. Very drought-tolerant once established. Requires minimal watering and suffers in overly moist conditions.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early autumn in milder climates to allow roots to establish.

Spacing:
Space 30–45 cm (12–18 inches) apart for groundcover or low hedging use, allowing room for airflow.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water sparingly. Allow soil to dry between watering. Avoid fertilization—too much fertility causes leggy growth and reduces aromatic oil production.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch lightly with gravel or coarse sand to suppress weeds and aid drainage. Prune back hard after flowering or in early spring to maintain compact shape and prevent woodiness.

Propagation:
Propagate by softwood cuttings in late spring or semi-ripe cuttings in summer. Can also be divided or grown from seed, though seed may not come true.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
Silvery-grey, finely textured evergreen foliage provides structure and contrast. New growth begins to emerge in compact mounds.

Summer:
Bright yellow, button-like flower heads bloom above the foliage on slender stems. Aromatic foliage releases scent when brushed or crushed.

Autumn:
Foliage remains evergreen; spent flowers can be deadheaded for tidiness. Offers strong visual contrast in fall gardens.

Winter:
Evergreen. Holds form and silvery colour through winter, especially in mild climates. Avoid winter wet, which can cause crown rot.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Aromatic foliage deters deer and some pests.

Garden Use:
Ideal for Mediterranean gardens, rock gardens, gravel gardens, herb gardens, and low hedging or edging. Excellent in containers and mixed borders where contrast is needed. Performs well in xeriscaping.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with drought-tolerant Mediterranean-style plants such as Lavandula, Thymus, Salvia, Achillea, and Eryngium. Contrasts well with bold green foliage or purple blooms.

Don’t miss out on the exceptional quality of the Santolina Chamaecyparissus .It’s just a few clicks away when you order online, or you can stop by your nearest Thompson's Branch to pick one up and chat with our knowledgeable team.