Ononis spinosa
spiny restharrow
A semi-evergreen subshrub or woody-based perennial, to around 60cm high, with an upright habit and stiff, spiny stems. Small, oval to elliptic leaves are held in groups of three, and pea-like flowers in shades of pink, purple and blue are borne all along the stems in summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Pink Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Native to the UK
- Yes
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
A large genus of around 88 annual and perennial herbs and shrubs with hairy, toothed green trifoliate foliage and showy pink or yellow flowers. They are mainly found on wasteland, in wildflower meadows and are suited to alpine or rock gardens
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a sunny spot in well-drained soil. Ideal for a sunny bank, rock or gravel garden, or a south-facing wall
Propagation
Propagate by seed, sown in containers in an open frame in autumn, or by softwood cuttings in early summer. Seeds may need scarifying. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Rock garden
- Banks and slopes
- Wall side borders
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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