About

This low-growing, hemi-parasitic annual that typically grows between 3 and 15 cm. It has bent-at-the-base stems with heart-shaped leaves and produces tiny white flowers with violet veins, measuring 5 to 7 mm in length, from July to August.

About the genus

Euphrasia is a genus of plants encompassing species that may be herbaceous, shrubby, or woody. They are grown for their ornamental flowers, foliage, or fruit, and vary in hardiness and cultural requirements

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAlkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
HeightUp to 10cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCoastal, Rock garden, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toSubarctic

Care notes

CultivationFlourishes in sunny coastal areas, resilient against wind and salt spray, with the right host plants like grasses or legumes, it can establish well. See Creating wildflower meadows for further advice
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagation by seed sown in situ in late summer or autumn, allowing them to establish connections with suitable host plants.
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free