Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) — Bushy

Overview

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Hesperis, part of the Brassicaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, wildlife gardens and flower borders and beds.

About

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' is a bushy, deciduous cultivar of the Hesperis genus, which includes biennial and perennial plants known for their clusters of fragrant four-petalled flowers. This cultivar produces white flowers and thrives in full sun or partial shade, favouring east, south, or west-facing aspects. It grows well in a variety of soil types including chalk, clay, loam, and sand, provided the soil is moist but well-drained. Hardy to UK zone H6, it is suitable for cottage and informal gardens, wildlife gardens, and flower borders, with interest in spring and summer.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Hesperis

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness: H6

Plant details

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial, Herbaceous Perennial
Habit: Bushy
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Cottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens, Flower borders and beds

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d)

Propagation: Seed sown in situ, Basal softwood cuttings in spring
Pest resistance: Cabbage caterpillars, Flea beetles, Slugs and snails
Disease resistance: Powdery mildews

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d)?

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) need?

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.

Is Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) hardy in the UK?

Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d) has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.

How do I propagate Hesperis matronalis var. albiflora 'Alba Plena' (d)?

Seed sown in situ, Basal softwood cuttings in spring.

More in the Hesperis genus

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