About
Ferula tingtitana (coll. Gibraltar) is a member of the genus Ferula in the carrot family Apiaceae and represents material collected in Gibraltar. It bears umbrella-like flowerheads composed of numerous small yellow florets and flowers in the UK from June to August. The stems are characteristically stout and hollow, carrying finely divided leaves and terminal umbels. This accession will appeal to those interested in Mediterranean umbellifers and architectural herbaceous plants.
About the genus
Ferula is a genus of about 220 species of flowering plants in the family Apiaceae, native to the Mediterranean region east to central Asia, mostly growing in arid climates. Many plants of this genus, especially F. communis, are referred to as "giant fennel", although they are not fennel in the strict sense.
Wikipedia contributors, "Ferula", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Ferula
In the garden
Ferula tingtitana (coll. Gibraltar) sits within the genus Ferula (Apiaceae) and is presented here as an accession collected in Gibraltar. Members of the genus are known for tall, stout hollow stems and clustered umbels of small flowers; this accession produces its flowering heads in the UK from June to August. The overall effect is architectural: upright stems topped by broad, flat-topped umbels. Select a sunny, well-drained spot where tall herbaceous structure can be accommodated; a margin against a warm, sheltered wall or at the back of a sunny border will show the flowering heads to best effect. Soils that shed water quickly are sensible for plants with Mediterranean affinities, and a position with good air movement reduces prolonged damp around the crown. Keep surrounding planting lower to reveal the stems and umbels rather than obscuring them. Ferula tingtitana (coll. Gibraltar) works where bold vertical and seasonal summer structure is wanted: trial it among gravel, around dry-stone or terraced areas, or where tall umbels can be seen from a path or terrace. Note the flowering season runs June to August, and allow the dried umbels to stand briefly if you wish to extend structural interest into autumn and winter.
