About

Chamaenerion dodonaei is a spreading perennial characterized by its woody root system and erect stems adorned with slender, hairy leaves. During the summer months, it produces loose clusters of cup-shaped flowers in shades of purple-pink.

About the genus

Chamaenerion species can be either annuals or perennials and may exhibit invasive traits. They feature upright stems that support slender leaves and produce conspicuous, four-petaled flowers arranged in terminal racemes.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
0.5-1 metres
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden

Care notes

Cultivation
Grows best in humus-rich, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or semi-shade
Pruning
Deadhead to encourage repeat flowering, and prevent self-seeding
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown as soon as ripe, or sown in spring; or by division in autumn or spring; or take softwood cuttings from sideshoots in spring
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to powdery mildews and a rust