Under used in Australian gardens Santolina are a Sun Loving plant commonly called Lavender Cotton. Best know for the species Santolina chamaecyparissus, an excellent plant for a dry garden, however many other species and named cultivars are worth exploring as well.
Naturally growing in dry conditions, often in poor soil, however thriving as a great garden plant under slightly better conditions. Some species are grown for the foliage, however these great little plants can also provide a mass of flowers as well.
This group of evergreen perennial shrubs are often referred to as Cotton lavender, these are a useful garden plant that cope well with hot dry conditions and will form dense small bushes.
A small flowering shrubs that grow to .5m, all varieties are a dry tolerant plant that prefer full sun. Look for S. rosemarinifolia a yellow flowering Green species and S. chamaecyparissus Var Nana, a grey/silver foliage plant.
A number of species are sometimes used in ‘Knot Gardens’ and Boxford International Gardens in Canberra has a fine example.
Planting And Care Guide
This step-by-step guide focuses on planting and establishing Santolina so it performs reliably for years. Adjust timing to your local climate, but aim for mild conditions rather than extremes.
Choose the Right Position
- Select a position in full sun, with at least 6 hours of direct light daily.
- Avoid low-lying or heavy clay areas where water sits after rain.
- For humid climates, favour spots with good air circulation to reduce fungal issues.
Prepare the Soil
- Aim for well-drained, sandy or gritty soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH is ideal.
- If your soil is heavy, incorporate coarse sand or fine gravel through the top 20–30 cm to sharpen drainage.
- Avoid adding rich compost or high-nitrogen fertiliser, as Santolina prefers lean conditions.
Planting and Spacing
- Plant in spring after the last frost, or early autumn in mild regions so roots establish before heat or
- Dig a hole just wider than the root ball, keeping the crown at or just above soil level to prevent rot.
- Backfill, firm gently and water once to settle the soil, then allow the surface to dry between further waterings.
Care and Pruning
- Water weekly during the first season in dry weather, then gradually reduce once plants are established and growing.
- Lightly shear after flowering to remove spent yellow buttons and keep mounds compact.
- Every 3–4 years, cut back hard to 10–15 cm above ground in late winter or early spring to rejuvenate woody plants.
Santolina Species and Varieties
- Santolina virens is known as Green Santolina.
- Santolina pinnata subsp. ‘Edward Bowles’ is a popular ornamental species.
- S. ‘Petit Blanc’, a low growing variety with small white flowers, evergreen and a great grou8ndcover plant.
- S. incana is another available for sale online from participating nurseries.
- While S. virens is called ‘Green Cotton lavender’ the cultivar, S. virens ‘Lemon Fizz’ comes with bright yellow foliage and flowers held high above the foliage. Mound forming and growing to 20cm 18″ S. virens ‘Lemon Fizz’ makes a bright addition to the garden.
- Santolina rosmarinifolia ‘Primrose Gem’ is another mound forming variety, deep green foliage and drought tolerant. And this one is an RHS Garden Merit Award Winner.
Did you know ?
S. rosmarinifolia is known as the ‘Olive Herb’. The foliage is used for flavouring salads, and yes it tastes like olives.
Tips for Buying Santolina Varieties
- Most Santolina types prefer full sun and well-drained soil.
- Availability can vary by season and nursery — smaller growers or online nurseries often have more cultivar diversity.
- Some varieties may be limited stock or seasonal mail-order only.
Where to Buy
Large range of Rare, Unusual and Old Fashioned Perennials. Includes Artemisias, Achilleas, Geraniums, Geums, Salvias, Penstemon and Francoa.
www.yellowhouseheritageperennials.com.au
357 Monbulk Road SILVAN VIC 3795
Guaranteed "garden worthy" bulbs, plants and perennials. Visit the website to browse our large range of daffodils or request the latest free catalogue.
www.tesselaar.net.au
52 Rodd St Canowindra NSW 2804
An online nursery specialising in drought and frost tolerant perennials and fragrant, edible and herbs.
www.perennialle.com.au