Ononis spinosa

RHS Plant Profile
spiny restharrow

Other common names

cas gan arddwr

Herbaceous Perennial Shrubs

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

Position

Full sun

Soil Types

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Max Height

0.5-1 metres

Max Spread

0.1-0.5 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
2–5 years
Max Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Max Height
0.5-1 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Loam Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
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