How to plant Limonium
Commonly known as Sea Lavender, it’s no surprise that these hardy perennials flourish in coastal gardens and dry, stony soils. Limonium is a robust hardy perennial that’s perfectly adapted for exposed positions. Rosettes of low growing foliage nestle close to the ground, neatly avoiding blustery weather, while the papery summer blooms rise on wiry stems that seem impervious to gusty salt-laden winds. These characteristics make it perfect for sun-drenched borders, patio containers and gravel gardens. Florists may know it by another name, Statice. Its colourful calyces remain intact long after the true flowers fade making them useful for dried flower arrangements.
How to plant
- Plant Limonium in spring between February and May, ideally within a week of delivery.
- Soak the roots in water for 3-6 hours prior to planting. Pot into temporary 2 litre (or 15-20cm diameter) pots, using a good quality multi-purpose compost.
- Plant with the roots submerged and with the top of the root system just level with the soil surface. Any shoots which have emerged already should be left exposed about the soil surface.
- Grow them on in a sheltered spot outside. They can be transplanted to suitable growing positions after 2-4 months or once growth is established and the plants easily come out of the temporary pots with the soil held together by the roots.
- When planting into the garden, choose a position in full sun. Limonium prefers a sandy or stony, well drained soil. It flourishes in in gravel gardens and coastal locations but is just as happy in a free draining garden border.
- This perennial is fully hardy and does not require winter protection.
- Water-in after planting and keep hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year.
Aftercare
- Limonium will start to produce leaves each spring and flowers appear from around June.
- Trim away old flower stems, removing them just above the basal foliage as the blooms fade. Limonium will replace these with more flower stems throughout summer.
- The stems will naturally die back in late summer and autumn, at which point they can be cut back to around 3cm above ground level.
- Over time, this perennial forms a clump which produces more flower stems as it gradually spreads. They lifted and split in early spring or late autumn if desired.