Overview

Gnaphalium uliginosum is a plant with a bushy habit in the genus Gnaphalium, part of the Asteraceae family, with semi-evergreen foliage. Gnaphalium uliginosum grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include coastal, cottage and informal garden, gravel garden, mediterranean climate plants and patio and container plants.

About

Gnaphalium uliginosum, commonly known as marsh cudweed, is a bushy cultivar within the Gnaphalium genus of the Asteraceae family. It features semi-evergreen foliage and thrives in full sun with a south- or west-facing aspect, tolerating exposed conditions. This plant prefers fertile, well-drained soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with an alkaline to neutral pH. Hardy to UK zone H4, it is suitable for coastal, cottage, gravel, and Mediterranean-style gardens, as well as patios and containers. Interest is mainly during spring and summer, with propagation possible by seed or semi-ripe cuttings in summer.

About the genus

Gnaphalium is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, commonly called cudweeds or (formerly) chafeweeds. They are widespread and common in temperate regions, although some are found on tropical mountains or in the subtropical regions of the world.

Wikipedia contributors, "Gnaphalium", CC BY-SA 4.0Gnaphalium

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Gnaphalium

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed
UK hardiness
H4

Plant details

Gnaphalium uliginosum size, habit and characteristics

Habit
Bushy
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Suggested uses
Coastal, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Gnaphalium uliginosum

Propagation
Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings in summer
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to honey fungus, downy mildews, powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Gnaphalium uliginosum?

Gnaphalium uliginosum prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.

What soil does Gnaphalium uliginosum need?

Gnaphalium uliginosum is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, loam and sand. It prefers alkaline and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.

Is Gnaphalium uliginosum hardy in the UK?

Gnaphalium uliginosum has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Gnaphalium uliginosum?

Seed, Semi-ripe cuttings in summer.