About

Crambe cordifolia is a herbaceous perennial that can reach heights of up to 1.8 meters. It features large, dark green lobed leaves that can grow as wide as 30 centimeters. In summer, the plant produces branched clusters of small, fragrant white flowers.

About the genus

Crambe consists of sturdy annuals and perennials characterized by broad, either entire or lobed leaves, and clusters of small, aromatic white flowers arranged in racemes or large panicles.

Growing conditions

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

Plant details

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Clump forming
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Coastal
Native to
Caucasus
Fragrance
Flower

Care notes

Cultivation
Ideally grow in a deep, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun although it will tolerate poor soil and partial shade. Provide shelter from strong winds.
Pruning
Cut down to ground level in autumn
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in pots in a cold frame in spring or autumn or propagate by division in early spring or take root cuttings in winter
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to flea beetles, slugs and caterpillars
Disease resistance
May suffer from club root