Santolina

By Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=121838

Gray Santolina (Santolina chamaecyparissus)

Scientific Name: Santolina chamaecyparissus
Common Names: Gray Santolina, Lavender Cotton, Cotton Lavender
Native to: Mediterranean region
Lighting Requirements: Full Sun
Height: 1-2 feet
Width: 2-3 feet (can spread)
Winter Look: Evergreen
Seasonal Interest: Late spring to summer (yellow button-like flowers)
Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils
pH Range: 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
Deer Resistance: High; rarely browsed by deer
Attracts: Bees, Butterflies

Notes: Known for its aromatic, grayish-silver foliage and use in herb gardens or as a border plant. Tolerates dry conditions well and is great for rock gardens and Mediterranean-style landscapes. This Santolina lives longer than its green cousin and survives for about 10-15 years.

By Stan Shebs, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=301850

Green Santolina (Santolina viridis)

Scientific Name: Santolina viridis
Common Names: Green Santolina, Green Lavender Cotton
Native to: Mediterranean region
Lighting Requirements: Full Sun
Height: 1-2 feet
Width: 1-3 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen
Seasonal Interest: Spring to summer (yellow button-like flowers)
Drought Tolerance: High; very drought-tolerant once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, sandy or gravelly soils
pH Range: 6.0 - 7.5 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 6-9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; occasionally browsed by deer
Attracts: Bees, Butterflies

Notes: This variety is excellent for xeriscaping, especially when you need that perfect little evergreen. It is compact and low-maintenance and has aromatic, green foliage. This variety has a relatively short lifespan of about five years. This may be a drawback for some. Â