Santolina rosmarinifolia 'Primrose Gem' is a delightful evergreen shrub that stands out for its compact form and finely textured, aromatic foliage reminiscent of rosemary. This plant creates a dense, rounded mound of mid-green leaves that not only adds visual interest but also provides a pleasant fragrance when brushed against. Its cheerful presence is particularly effective in sunny borders, gravel gardens, or as part of neatly clipped low hedges, making it a versatile choice for various landscaping styles.
During the summer months, 'Primrose Gem' showcases its charm with soft primrose-yellow, button-like flowers that bloom on slender stems, creating a striking contrast against the lush green foliage. These flowers not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of the garden but also attract pollinators, contributing to the overall health of the ecosystem. The evergreen nature of the foliage ensures that this shrub maintains its structure and texture throughout the year, providing a reliable backdrop in any garden setting.
This resilient plant thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, particularly favoring poor, sandy, or stony conditions, which makes it an excellent choice for coastal gardens where wind and salt tolerance are essential. Once established, 'Primrose Gem' is drought-tolerant and requires minimal maintenance, making it ideal for busy gardeners. It is often incorporated into formal or Mediterranean-style gardens, rockeries, and herb gardens, and responds well to clipping and shaping, allowing for creative uses in edging or topiary. While fully hardy in the UK, it does prefer a sheltered location in colder areas to ensure optimal growth. Height: 40 cm (16 in) Spread: 50 cm (20 in).
Growing Information
Grow Cotton Lavender in any light, well-drained soil in a sunny border.
