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Herbaceous PerennialAlpine Rockery

Acanthophyllum cerastioides

mouse-ear gypsophila

A mat-forming, semi-evergreen perennial 5cm tall, with tufts of grey-green hairy leaves to 10mm long and bearing panicles of shallow, trumpet-shaped white flowers, veined and tinged pink, produced over long periods from late spring to summer

Synonyms
Gypsophila cerastioides
Gypsophila cerastioides farreri
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring White Pink Grey Silver Green
Summer White Pink Grey Silver Green
Autumn Grey Silver Green
Winter Grey Silver Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Drought resistance
Yes
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Caryophyllaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Matforming
Genus

Acanthophyllum are a genus of around 75 species of compact, perennial, shrub-like flowering plants with spiny leaves and pink or white flowers

Name status

Correct

Plant range
Pakistan to Tibet & Himalaya

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in light, sharply-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet.

Propagation

Propagate by seed at 13-18°C in winter or in a cold frame in spring; propagate by root cuttings in late winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Coastal
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Rock garden
  • Banks and slopes
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Garden edging
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

May be susceptible to stem rots

Get involved

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