About
Vigorous, quick growing, deciduous ground cover perennial for covering large shady areas. Bears large, bristly, heart-shaped leaves 10-50cm in diameter, with starry blue 'borage-style' flowers in clusters in spring.
About the genus
Trachystemon 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 shade, Full sun, Partial shade
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, North-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureExposed, Sheltered
UK hardinessH7
Plant details
Plant typeHerbaceous Perennial
HabitMatforming, Spreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread1.5-2.5 metres
Time to full height2-5 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, Wildlife gardens
Native toBulgaria, Turkey
Care notes
CultivationMakes useful ground cover in large spaces where it can roam freely, dry and shady included. Tolerates any soil except those that are waterlogged
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by division or by seed
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free