Santolina chamaecyparissus

Cotton Lavender

A compact-growing shrub with fine, feathery white or grey leaves of short and slender stature. Golden flower heads about 1cm in diameter are produced on the Santolina Chamaecyparissus stems in summer and often look like buttons against the grey foliage. The remains of flowers must be cut off as soon as they are spent, to prevent them from damaging the foliage as they decompose.

It is an excellent filler plant for dry, sunny positions and is also an attractive low hedge plant. The foliage is mildly aromatic, sometimes prompting its use in herb gardens. The plants form mound-like bushes, growing to 60cm tall and slightly wider around the girth. Santolina Chamaecyparissus ‘Cotton lavender’ is cold hardy.