Bupleurum rotundifolium
thorow-wax
An erect, branching annual to 30cm, with roundish leaves, the upper ones clasping the reddish stem. Clusters of tiny yellow flowers in rings of leaf-like bracteoles are grouped at the end of each stem branch. Formerly a cornfield weed, it now barely occurs in the wild, but makes a decorative garden annual
Other common names
common hare's earforcible plant
see moreNorth American modesty plant
thorough-wax
thoroughwort
Synonyms
Bupleurum griffithiiBupleurum perfoliatum
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Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green Yellow | Green | |
| Autumn | Red | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Bupleurum may be annuals, perennials or evergreen shrubs; the leaves are simple, the tiny yellow or green flowers are borne in a cluster usually subtended by petal-like green to yellow bracts
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Mediterranean to Central Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed. It is best to sow fresh seed in the autumn or sow in a cold frame in spring. Can self-seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Prairie planting
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wildflower meadow
- Banks and slopes
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to control self-seeding
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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