Overview

Circaea is a columnar upright herbaceous perennial in the genus Circaea, part of the Onagraceae family, with deciduous foliage. Circaea grows best in full shade and partial shade, and tolerates clay and loam soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens and ground cover.

About

Circaea, or enchanter's nightshades, is a genus of flowering plants in the evening primrose family Onagraceae. About two dozen taxa have been described, including eight species.

About the genus

Circaea, or enchanter's nightshades, is a genus of flowering plants in the evening primrose family Onagraceae. About two dozen taxa have been described, including eight species. Plants of the genus occur throughout the temperate and boreal forests of the Northern Hemisphere.

Wikipedia contributors, "Circaea", CC BY-SA 4.0Circaea

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Circaea

Sunlight
Full shade, Partial shade
Soil type
Clay, Loam
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
North-facing, South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Circaea size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Columnar upright
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Wildlife gardens, Ground cover

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Circaea

Propagation
Seed, Division
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Circaea?

Circaea prefers full shade and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Circaea need?

Circaea grows best in clay and loam soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Circaea hardy in the UK?

Circaea 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 Circaea?

Seed, Division.