About

Bupleurum longifolium is a short-lived perennial that reaches heights of up to 90 cm. It features an upright growth form, characterized by long, narrow basal leaves and oval to heart-shaped upper leaves that embrace the stems. The foliage is mid-green to grey-green, occasionally displaying a hint of purple. In summer, it produces loose clusters of small yellow flowerheads, which are encircled by green bracts that resemble petals.

About the genus

Bupleurum includes a range of growth forms, such as annuals, perennials, and evergreen shrubs. The foliage consists of simple leaves, while the small yellow or green flowers are grouped together, typically accompanied by petal-like bracts that can be green to yellow in color.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
1-2 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Wildflower meadow, Gravel garden
Native to
C Eur. to Siberia

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in full sun in well drained soil; thrives in poor soils
Pruning
Deadhead to avoid self-seeding
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown fresh in autumn; plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended. Plants grown from seed will usually flower in the second year
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free