About
A tender evergreen perennial, forming tufts of grass-like, linear basal leaves to 40cm long. Small, three-petaled purple or deep blue flowers are borne on slender stems in late spring and early summer; though the flowers are short-lived, they are produced successionally, sometimes for several weeks.
About the genus
Patersonia comprises a group of plants, ranging from herbaceous perennials to shrubs or small trees. Species within the genus display a variety of growth habits and are cultivated for their decorative or practical qualities
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureWell-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH1C
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitTufted
FoliageEvergreen
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesPatio and container plants
Care notes
CultivationIn frost-free areas, may be grown outdoors in light, fertile, well-drained soil in full sun; may tolerate occasional light frosts where drainage is excellent. In colder areas, grow in a cool greenhouse or conservatory, or in containers that can be moved indoors over winter, in a peat-free, loam-based potting compost with added grit
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed, sown at 15-18°C, or by division in autumn
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free