Smyrnium perfoliatum
perfoliate alexanders
S. perfoliatum is an upright biennial with stout, ribbed stems, green basal leaves up to 20cm long, and shorter, bright, yellow-green upper leaves joined to surround the stem. Open sprays of tiny, yellow-green flowers are produced in the second spring
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.5–1 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Yellow | Green Yellow | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green Yellow | |||
| Autumn | Green Yellow | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or East–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Smyrnium are erect, branching biennials with broadly oblong, divided lower leaves and rounded upper leaves. In late spring and early summer they produce branched umbels of small, greenish-yellow flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- S Europe
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist but well-drained soil in full sun or partial shade. Naturalises well in grass
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in situ in autumn or late spring, or in containers in spring. Germination is erratic
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Wildflower meadow
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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