About
An upright, bushy annual with oblong leaves to 15cm long, covered densely with white hair when young, later sparsely. From summer to early autumn it bears spherical flower heads composed of pink, purple or white papery bracts; these are good for cutting.
About the genus
Gomphrena are spreading or bushy annuals with opposite, simple, ovate leaves and tiny flowers in dense heads, with colourful bracts
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH2
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Native toGuatemala, Panama
Care notes
CultivationPlant out after the last frosts into any moderately fertile soil in full sun
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by sowing seed at 15-18°C in early spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free