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Shrubs
Gomphostigma virgatum
otter bush
A large, arching shrub to 2.5m with silvery-grey stems and narrow, silvery, willow-like leaves. Small, white flowers are produced in graceful sprays over a long period from early summer to mid-autumn
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
5–10 yearsUltimate spread
1.5–2.5 metresGrowing conditions
Clay
Loam
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Poorly–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Grey Silver | Grey Silver | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Grey Silver | White | Grey Silver | |
| Autumn | Grey Silver | White | Grey Silver | |
| Winter | Grey Silver | Grey Silver |
Position
- Full sun
- Partial shade
Aspect
East–facing or South–facing or North–facing or West–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Scrophulariaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Gomphostigma are evergreen shrubs with narrow, stemless leaves and small, white, four-petalled flowers in small clusters
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Southern Africa
How to grow
Cultivation
Tolerates most positions but does best in moist, heavy soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or by layering
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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