About
Datisca cannabina, Cretan hemp, is a tall, clump-forming herbaceous perennial to 2 m or more with erect, vertical stems clothed in lime-green, ash-like, pinnate leaves and long, hanging tassels of tiny, greenish-white flowers throughout summer. A bold and architectural perennial for a sheltered, moist, sunny or partly shaded border.
About the genus
Datisca are large, herbaceous perennials with long, pinnately divided leaves and ball- or tassel-shaped clusters of greenish flowers in summer, male and female borne on separate plants. Grown as bold, architectural foliage perennials in sheltered borders.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, South-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toAsia Minor to India
Care notes
CultivationGrow in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in sun or semi-shade
PruningCut stems down at the end of the season
PropagationPropagate by seed or by division in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally problem free
Disease resistanceGenerally problem free