About

A low-growing, hemi-parasitic annual growing between 12 and 18cm. It produces small whiteish-lilac flowers from June to September. It has toothed, glossy green leaves arranged oppositely along the stem.

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
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCoastal, Wildflower meadow, Wildlife gardens
Native toW Europe

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