About

A compact evergreen perennial, to 10cm high, with spreading rhizomes and basal rosettes of oval to broadly lance-shaped, leathery green leaves with serrated edges. Slender stems bear sprays of tiny, tightly clustered star-shaped white flowers in late spring and early summer.

About the genus

Tanakaea is a genus of plants encompassing species that may be herbaceous, shrubby, or woody. They are grown for their ornamental flowers, foliage, or fruit, and vary in hardiness and cultural requirements

Growing conditions

SunlightFull shade, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectWest-facing, East-facing, North-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5

Plant details

Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitClump forming
FoliageEvergreen
HeightUp to 10 cm
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Rock garden

Care notes

CultivationGrow in moist, humus-rich soil in full or partial shade, ideal for a woodland garden or a cool, shady corner of a rockery
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division, separating rooted portions of rhizome in spring
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free