Lavender Cotton
santolina rosmarinifolia
Also known as: ["Cotton Lavender","Lavender Cotton"]
Overview
A small, evergreen shrub with finely divided, silvery-gray foliage and button-like yellow flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Santolina |
| Botanical Name: | Santolina rosmarinifolia |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, herb gardens, or as a border plant in sunny, dry areas
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with added organic matter; cactus or succulent potting mix is ideal.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in early spring; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant’s growth if necessary.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust to partial shade in extreme summer heat to prevent scorching.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; place in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade if necessary.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense summer sun; avoid placing in dark corners.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries out between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with low fertility
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 6.5–7.5).
Use a mix with good aeration; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F / 18–27°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat; reduce watering in cooler temperatures.
Protect from frost; ensure good air circulation in hot weather; adjust watering based on temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize only during active growth; use a low-nitrogen formula; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings; division of clumps can also be effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Early spring or late summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus potting mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended to improve success rates.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 3–6 weeks; plants may take several months to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sunlight.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; cut just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or overgrown stems; best done in early spring before new growth begins.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune in early spring; remove dead wood; shape the plant evenly.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for maintaining vigor and preventing root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture penetration without saturating the soil; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry before nightfall.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once every 7–10 days during active growth in spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis or leaf drop in excessive heat; stunted growth or browning leaf edges in cold stress.
Cold Stress
Low temperatures slow growth and can cause leaf discoloration or dieback; prolonged cold may lead to root damage.
Solution: Move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered location; apply a layer of mulch to protect roots; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Excessive heat can cause wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may lead to dehydration if water needs are not met.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during growing season; avoid over-fertilization; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer; avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSantolina rosmarinifolia is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicSantolina rosmarinifolia is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects from ingestion or contact with this plant.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicSantolina rosmarinifolia is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. It is commonly used in landscaping and does not pose significant health risks.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Santolina rosmarinifolia toxic to pets?
A: No, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Q: How often should I water Santolina rosmarinifolia?
A: Water sparingly, as it is drought tolerant and prefers well-drained soil.
Q: Does Santolina rosmarinifolia attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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