About
Mutisia ilicifolia is an evergreen climbing shrub producing the characteristic holly-like, spine-margined leaves and showy, daisy-like flowerheads of the genus. A rewarding plant for a sheltered, sunny, frost-free garden.
About the genus
Mutisia are evergreen climbing perennials or shrubs from South America with simple to pinnate leaves, often with a terminal tendril, and showy, daisy-like flowerheads in the leaf axils. Grown in sheltered, sunny, frost-free gardens.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Gravel garden, Patio and container plants, Rock garden, Wildlife gardens
Care notes
CultivationGrow in poor or moderately fertile, sharply drained soil in full sun or part shade. Protect from excess winter wet
PruningCut back after flowering if seed is not required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown in containers in a cold frame in spring
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to slugs and snails
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to powdery mildews and downy mildews