How to plant Trachystemon
Few garden perennials are as tough and reliable as Trachystemon. This early-flowering borage is quick growing, over the years forming a spreading colony of dense, weed smothering ground cover on almost any soil. It copes admirably with dry shaded areas beneath trees and shrubs, or teetering on steep banks where other plants struggle to establish. The large, heart shaped leaves are rough and bristly but make an attractive backdrop for its nectar-rich, spring flowers with starry reflexed petals. This hard-working perennial is ideal for informal wild gardens and woodland areas, wildlife planting schemes or the front of cottage garden borders.
How to plant
- Plant Trachystemon in the 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 so that the roots are fully submerged in the soil and the top of the root system with buds is level with the soil surface, or with any developing shoots/leaves exposed above the soil surface.
- Grow them on in a sheltered, bright position outside. They can be transplanted to borders in a suitable location after 2-4 months, or once growth is established and the plant easily comes out of the pot with the soil held intact by the roots.
- This perennial is fully hardy and does not require frost protection.
- Trachystemon is happy in almost any soil except permanently waterlogged areas and exceptionally dry soil. It will grow in almost any aspect from full sun to dappled shade.
- Water-in after planting and keep well hydrated when in growth, particularly during the first year. Once established, Trachystemon will virtually look after itself. In summer it may need additional watering if grown in full sun or drier soils.
Aftercare
- Trachystemon will start to produce new leaves in spring. Flowers appear from March to April providing valuable nectar for queen bees as they emerge from winter hibernation. The stems will naturally die back in late autumn and should then be cut back to around 3cm above ground level.
- Almost no maintenance is required but once established, these perennials will spread to create dense ground cover. Overcrowded groups can be lifted and divided in early spring or late autumn.