Η Levantine (Santolina chamaecyparissus) it is widely used in landscape architecture because of the striking color of its foliage. It belongs to the family Asteraceae. Its origin is from regions of the Western and Central Mediterranean.
Description of the plant
Levantine is a perennial, aromatic shrub with slow growth. It reaches a height of 60 cm. Its leaves are small, jagged and narrow, gray-green in color. Its flowers are yellow and grow in spherical inflorescences. Flowering begins in May and lasts until September.
Plant care
Location
It grows satisfactorily in all types of soils, without particular problems. Prerequisite for the soil to be well drained. Prefers places with sun or moderate shade.
It also grows in barren, stony soils.
Durability
It is sensitive to very low temperatures. Suitable for coastal plantings.
Watering
It needs moderate amounts of watering, with limited to no watering in the winter and more regular watering in the warm periods of the year.
Pruning
We prune relatively lightly, in early spring, keeping its shape in a compact form, removing diseased and dry twigs.
Lubrication
In order to achieve lasting and rich flowering, it is good to strengthen it regularly from spring to the end of summer.
Diseases and enemies
It does not face significant problems. It can be attacked by aphids and coccoids.
It is suitable for
- individual plantings in gardens, parks,
- ground cover,
- planting in pots for balconies, terraces.
