About
Moltkia petraea is a low-growing, clump-forming, hardy semi-evergreen perennial to around 25 cm with narrow, dark blue-green foliage with white-hairy undersides. Clusters of tubular, dark-blue flowers appear on thin stems in late spring to early summer, attracting bees and other pollinators. An excellent plant for an alpine garden, sandy border or crevice; drought-tolerant once established.
About the genus
Moltkia are evergreen or deciduous subshrubs and perennials with simple, lance-shaped or linear leaves and funnel-shaped or tubular, blue, purple or yellow flowers in late spring and early summer. Grown in sunny, well-drained, Mediterranean-style gardens and rock gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageSemi evergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCity and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Mediterranean climate plants, Rock garden
Native toBalkans
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor, well-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Protect from excessive winter wet and cold, drying winds
PruningCut back old top growth in winter
PropagationPropagate by seed or softwood cuttings
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free