Plant of the Month for May 2014

Edraianthus serphyllifolius

Description and General Information:

This is a cushion-forming species generally under 5 cm in height.  Plants produce small, narrow leaves and solitary flowers at the ends of short stems.  The violet-blue, bell-shaped flowers are 1.5 to 2.5 cm in length.

In the wild, plants grow on calcareous slopes and cliffs of western Yugoslavia and northern Albania.

Cultivation:

This species requires a sunny site with excellent drainage.  Rock crevices and screes are ideal.  Plants are sensitive to winter-wet.  A yearly liberal sprinkling of powdered lime is beneficial in areas where the soil is naturally acidic. Plants are hardy to USDA zone 4.

Blooming Period:

May (south) through July(north)

Propagation:

Seeds and cuttings

Seeds:

Seeds require 6-10 weeks of stratification.  Surface sow as they require light for germination.

Division:

Not generally practiced.

Cuttings:

Basal shoots may be taken in spring.

 

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