Not widely offered in nurseries Sonchus are an excellent addition to the garden. Grow then for the masses of yellow flowers, as well as for the attractive foliage. They attract bees and Butterflies to the garden and are easy care.
The beauty of these plants is that will flower well in part shade and do not require much extra water.
Sonchus acaulis and Sonchus arborous are two ornamental perennials grown for the foliage as well as the yellow flowers.
Sonchus acaulis (pictured right) is low growing with flowers that appear held well above the foliage in spring to summer.
The taller growing Sonchus arborous is also grown for its foliage, the flowers are still wonderful but are held more closely to the foliage
Growing in part shade to full sun they do require a well drained position, particularly in winter.
Other Sonchus species include :
- So. palmensis – Tall and upright.
- S. frutescens – Very large foliage on a spreading plant to 2m
- S. canariensis – Taller growing to 3m.
Sonchus species are available for sale from the following nurseries
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
1070 Jacksons Track, Jindivick 3818
Specialising in growing and selling Rare and Unusual Trees, shrubs Perennials Bulbs and Climbers, a unique nursery with amazing stock.
www.jindivickcountrygardener.com.au
RORAIMA NURSERY – phone/Fax: (03) 5282 8704
20 Swan Street, Lara, Vic. 3212 Contact:
Retail and Mail Order Cacti and succulents. Wide range of trees, palms, ferns, natives, shrubs & perennials.