Overview
Pimpinella rubra is a bushy annual biennial in the genus Pimpinella, part of the Apiaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Pimpinella rubra grows best in full sun, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H3. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.
About
Pimpinella rubra is a bushy annual or biennial cultivar within the Pimpinella genus, known for its simple or pinnately divided foliage and branched clusters of small flowers. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun and suits south- or west-facing aspects, tolerating both exposed and sheltered conditions. It prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soils of various types and pH levels. Hardy to UK zone H3, it is ideal for patio and container planting. Propagation is best by seed sown in situ after frost risk has passed, as the plant dislikes root disturbance. Its season of interest spans summer and autumn.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Pimpinella
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H3
Plant details
Pimpinella rubra size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- Patio and container plants
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Pimpinella rubra
- Propagation
- Propagate by seed, ideally sown in situ after risk of frosts has passed, as plants dislike transplanting and root disturbance. In areas where the season is not long enough for seeds to ripen, plants may be started under glass in individual pots, though it is best to sow extra to allow for losses in planting out
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to aphids, slugs, snails and mice
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to powdery mildews and downy mildews
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Pimpinella rubra?
Pimpinella rubra prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Pimpinella rubra need?
Pimpinella rubra is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.
Is Pimpinella rubra hardy in the UK?
Pimpinella rubra has an RHS hardiness rating of H3, meaning it is half-hardy, tolerating -5 to 1°C, and may need winter protection in colder areas.
How do I propagate Pimpinella rubra?
Propagate by seed, ideally sown in situ after risk of frosts has passed, as plants dislike transplanting and root disturbance. In areas where the season is not long enough for seeds to ripen, plants may be started under glass in individual pots, though it is best to sow extra to allow for losses in planting out.