Overview
Acanthocalyx nepalensis is a plant with a columnar upright habit in the genus Acanthocalyx, part of the Morinaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Acanthocalyx nepalensis grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include architectural, cottage and informal garden, flower borders and beds and cut flowers. It is native to Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal and Tibet.
About
Acanthocalyx nepalensis, known as Nepal thornsepal, is a deciduous, columnar upright plant belonging to the genus Acanthocalyx within the Morinaceae family. Native to regions including Nepal, Tibet, and parts of China and Myanmar, it thrives in full sun and well-drained, neutral loam soils. Suitable for exposed or sheltered south, west, or east-facing aspects, it is hardy to UK zone H6. This cultivar is valued for its architectural form and seasonal interest in spring and summer, making it ideal for cottage gardens, flower borders, and as cut flowers. It can be propagated by division or root cuttings.
About the genus
Morina is a genus flowering plants in the family Caprifoliaceae. It includes 14 species native to Eurasia, ranging from southeastern Europe through Western and Central Asia to the Himalayas, China, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Acanthocalyx
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Acanthocalyx nepalensis size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds, Cut flowers
- Native to
- Bangladesh, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Myanmar, Nepal, Tibet
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Acanthocalyx nepalensis
- Propagation
- Division, Root cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Acanthocalyx nepalensis?
Acanthocalyx nepalensis prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Acanthocalyx nepalensis need?
Acanthocalyx nepalensis grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Acanthocalyx nepalensis hardy in the UK?
Acanthocalyx nepalensis has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Acanthocalyx nepalensis?
Division, Root cuttings.