Overview

Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' is a groundcover in the genus Glandora, part of the Boraginaceae family. Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates well-drained and light soils and acidic and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include rock gardens, borders and ground cover. It is native to Southwestern Europe.

About

Glandora diffusa, the purple gromwell, syn. Lithodora diffusa, Lithospermum diffusa, is a species of flowering plant in the family Boraginaceae.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0Glandora diffusa

About the genus

Glandora is a genus of flowering plants in the family Boraginaceae, native to the western and central Mediterranean region; Morocco, Algeria, Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Greece. It was split from Lithodora in 2008.

Wikipedia contributors, "Glandora", CC BY-SA 4.0Glandora

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Glandora

Sunlight
full sun, partial shade
Soil type
well-drained, light
Soil pH
acidic, neutral
Soil moisture
dry,moist
Exposure
sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
groundcover
Suggested uses
rock gardens, borders, ground cover
Native to
Southwestern Europe

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue'

Cultivation
Prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun or partial shade. Avoid waterlogged conditions.
Pruning
Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.
Propagation
Semi-ripe cuttings in summer, seed propagation possible but less common.

Frequently asked questions

How do I grow Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue'?

Prefers well-drained, acidic to neutral soil in full sun or partial shade. Avoid waterlogged conditions.

Where is the best place to plant Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue'?

Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' need?

Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' grows best in well-drained and light soil. It prefers acidic and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays dry to moist.

How do I prune Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue'?

Light pruning after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushiness.

Is Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' hardy in the UK?

Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue' has an RHS hardiness rating of H5, meaning it is hardy in most of the UK, tolerating -15 to -10°C.

How do I propagate Lithodora diffusa 'Heavenly Blue'?

Semi-ripe cuttings in summer, seed propagation possible but less common.

More in the Glandora genus

Browse all Glandora