About
Gomphostigma virgatum, the otter bush, is a large, arching shrub to 2.5 m with silver-grey, willow-like stems and narrow, silvery leaves. From early summer to mid-autumn, small, white flowers are produced in graceful, arching sprays over a long season. An elegant and ornamental shrub for a sunny, well-drained border in a mild garden.
About the genus
Gomphostigma are evergreen shrubs from South Africa with narrow, willow-like, silvery leaves and small, white, four-petalled flowers in small clusters. Grown in sunny, well-drained positions in mild gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Poorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, North-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeShrubs
HabitBushy
FoliageEvergreen
Height1.5-2.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height5-10 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden
Native toSouthern Africa
Care notes
CultivationTolerates most positions but does best in moist, heavy soil in full sun
PruningPruning group 6
PropagationPropagate by semi-hardwood cuttings or by layering
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free