Overview

Cymbalaria muralis is a trailing herbaceous perennial in the genus Cymbalaria, part of the Plantaginaceae family, with semi evergreen foliage. It typically grows around Up to 10 cm tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 2-5 years. Cymbalaria muralis grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, patio and container plants, gravel garden, rock garden and wildlife gardens.

About

Cymbalaria muralis forms a dense mat of small, lobed leaves that remain green for most of the year, spreading through creeping stems that take root at various points. Throughout the summer, it produces small flowers resembling those of snapdragons, in a lilac hue.

About the genus

Cymbalaria consists of low-growing, spreading perennials characterized by their rounded, generally lobed foliage. They produce small flowers with two lips and spurs, which can be found in purple or white hues.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Cymbalaria

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

Plant details

Cymbalaria muralis size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Herbaceous Perennial
Habit
Trailing
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Height
Up to 10 cm
Spread
0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height
2-5 years
Suggested uses
Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants, Gravel garden, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Cymbalaria muralis

Cultivation
Grow in semi-shade, or full sun where the soil is not too dry. Good for cracks in paving, or for trailing down walls
Pruning
No pruning required
Propagation
Propagate by seed, or by removing rooted sections of stem
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
Generally disease-free

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Cymbalaria muralis?

Grow in semi-shade, or full sun where the soil is not too dry. Good for cracks in paving, or for trailing down walls.

Where is the best place to plant Cymbalaria muralis?

Cymbalaria muralis prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Cymbalaria muralis need?

Cymbalaria muralis is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

How do I prune Cymbalaria muralis?

No pruning required.

How big does Cymbalaria muralis grow?

Cymbalaria muralis reaches a height of Up to 10 cm and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 2-5 years to reach full size.

Is Cymbalaria muralis hardy in the UK?

Cymbalaria muralis has a UK hardiness rating of H5.

How do I propagate Cymbalaria muralis?

Propagate by seed, or by removing rooted sections of stem.