Overview
Lithodora is a bushy shrubs in the genus Lithodora, part of the Boraginaceae family, with evergreen foliage. Lithodora grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and alkaline and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include coastal, gravel garden, rock garden, city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and patio and container plants.
About
Lithodora is an evergreen shrub or sub-shrub belonging to the Boraginaceae family, known for its bushy habit and 5-lobed flowers in blue or white hues. It blooms from early spring through summer and thrives in full sun with a south- or west-facing aspect. This cultivar prefers well-drained, fertile soils such as chalk, loam, or sand with an alkaline to neutral pH. Suitable for exposed sites, it is hardy to UK zone H4 and is ideal for coastal, rock, gravel, cottage, and city gardens, as well as patios and containers. Propagation is by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lithodora
- 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
Lithodora size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Shrubs, Alpine Rockery
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Evergreen
- Suggested uses
- Coastal, Gravel garden, Rock garden, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lithodora
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to honey fungus in gardens where it is present but insufficient data to determine degree of susceptibility
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lithodora?
Lithodora prefers full sun. It suits exposed positions.
What soil does Lithodora need?
Lithodora 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 Lithodora hardy in the UK?
Lithodora 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 Lithodora?
Propagate by semi-ripe cuttings in summer.