About
A rare native found in a few sites in southern England. An annual plant producing numerous fine, red stems fanning out across the ground. These are clothed in small, often reddish, leaves interspersed with whorls of tiny white flowers in summer.
About the genus
Illecebrum includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeSand
Soil pHAcid
Soil moisturePoorly-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitMatforming, Trailing
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1 year
Suggested usesGravel garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationNatually occurs in damp, sandy, open ground, particularly in areas that are poached by livestock and waterlogged in winter. Needs mildly acid soil with a constant water supply in an open position
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free