Overview
Lygeum spartum is a plant with a clump-forming, upright habit in the genus Lygeum, part of the Poaceae family, with linear, grey-green foliage. Lygeum spartum grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam soils and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H5. Suggested uses include specimen plant and drought-tolerant planting.
About
Lygeum spartum, commonly known as albardine or esparto, is a clump-forming, upright grass from the Poaceae family. It features linear, grey-green foliage and thrives in full sun on well-drained, neutral loam soil, ideally in a south-facing, sheltered position. Hardy to UK zone H5, it is suitable as a specimen plant or for drought-tolerant planting. Interest is mainly in spring and summer. Cultivation involves planting in well-drained soil with watering during establishment, and it can be propagated by division or seed.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Lygeum
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam
- Soil pH
- Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
Lygeum spartum size, habit and characteristics
- Habit
- Clump-forming, upright
- Foliage
- Linear, grey-green
- Suggested uses
- Specimen plant, drought-tolerant planting
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Lygeum spartum
- Propagation
- Division, seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Lygeum spartum?
Lygeum spartum prefers full sun. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Lygeum spartum need?
Lygeum spartum grows best in loam soil. It prefers neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
Is Lygeum spartum hardy in the UK?
Lygeum spartum 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 Lygeum spartum?
Division, seed.