Overview

Xerophyllum tenax is a perennial herb in the genus Xerophyllum, part of the Melanthiaceae family. It typically grows around 1.2 m tall. Xerophyllum tenax grows best in full sun, and tolerates sandy and loamy soils. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include rock gardens, naturalistic plantings and erosion control. It is native to Western N America.

About

Xerophyllum tenax is a perennial herb producing erect flowering stems to about 1.2 m. It prefers full sun and moist but well-drained sandy or loamy soils. Flowering in the UK occurs in June to July. It is valued for use on gravel banks and in naturalistic plantings where its height helps with erosion control.

Wikipedia contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0 — Xerophyllum tenax

In the garden

Xerophyllum tenax is a perennial herb native to western North America that sends up tall flowering stems to roughly 1.2 m. In the UK it flowers from June to July. Plant where it receives full sun and in a soil that is sandy or loamy and remains moist but well drained; exposure to full sun suits its habit and prevents the crown from staying too wet. Hardiness is H7, which means it is fully hardy through UK winters; the equivalent USDA range is 4–8. Choose a site that does not sit in winter water, since the plant prefers moisture without waterlogging. Give space for the erect stems and avoid heavy shade so flowering is more reliable. Its natural upright presence makes Xerophyllum tenax appropriate for rock gardens, naturalistic borders and slopes requiring erosion control. Allow its summer flower spikes to be a vertical accent at the front of a gravel bank or the edge of a meadow-style planting where the stems can be seen against lower companions.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Xerophyllum

Sunlight

Full sun

Soil type

Sandy, Loamy

Soil moisture

Moist but well-drained

Exposure

full sun

UK hardiness

H7

Plant details

Xerophyllum tenax size, habit and characteristics

Plant type

perennial herb

Height

1.2 m

Suggested uses

rock gardens, naturalistic plantings, erosion control

Native to

Western N America

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Xerophyllum tenax

Cultivation

Prefers well-drained, sandy or loamy soils; tolerates dry conditions once established; avoid waterlogged soils

Pruning

Remove dead flower stalks after blooming to maintain appearance

Propagation

Seed, division

Frequently asked questions