Overview

Acanthophyllum is a clump forming alpine rockery in the genus Acanthophyllum, part of the Caryophyllaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. Acanthophyllum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include gravel garden, patio and container plants and rock garden.

About

Acanthophyllum is a clump-forming cultivar of a genus comprising around 75 species of compact, perennial plants that resemble shrubs. It features semi-evergreen, spiny foliage and produces flowers in shades of pink or white during spring and summer. This cultivar thrives in full sun and is suitable for east, south, or west-facing aspects, tolerating exposed conditions. It prefers fertile, well-drained soil that is moist but not waterlogged, with an alkaline to neutral pH, and grows well in chalk, loam, or sand soils. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is ideal for gravel gardens, rock gardens, patios, and containers.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Acanthophyllum

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Chalk, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Alkaline, Neutral

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Exposed

UK hardiness

H6

Plant details

Acanthophyllum size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

Alpine Rockery

Habit

Clump forming

Foliage

Semi evergreen

Suggested uses

Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Acanthophyllum

Propagation

Root cuttings

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

May be susceptible to stem rot

Frequently asked questions