African Cotton Lavender
santolina africana
Also known as: ["African Lavender Cotton","Lavender Cotton"]
Overview
A compact, evergreen shrub with finely divided, silvery-gray foliage and button-like yellow flowers. Native to the Mediterranean region.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","deer resistant","drought tolerant","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Asterales |
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Genus: | Santolina |
| Botanical Name: | Santolina africana |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: rock gardens, sunny borders, or containers in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy, or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate to heavy (can cut back by one-third to one-half).
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily).
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in summer; ensure outdoor placement in full sun.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is essential; avoid shade; rotate plant for even growth.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, less frequently in winter
Water deeply but infrequently; avoid overwatering; ensure excellent drainage.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5).
Ensure excellent drainage; avoid heavy clay soils; amend with grit if needed.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–80°F or 18–27°C). Tolerates mild frosts but thrives in warmth.
Protect from frost; ensure warmth in winter; avoid extreme heat exposure.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during spring and summer
Use weak fertilizer solutions; fertilize only in active growth; stop in winter.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings.
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: Late spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (70–75°F or 21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Recommended to use rooting hormone for better success.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–6 weeks; establish in new pot after 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings; maintain humidity; avoid overwatering.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Shearing or selective cutting of stems to shape plant and promote denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or leggy growth.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Clean tools; prune dead/leggy stems; shape plant; sanitize tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
One size up (e.g., from 4-inch to 6-inch pot).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if necessary; place in slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot only when root-bound or every 2–3 years to refresh soil.
Checklist
Check root-bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water lightly after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil dryness; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until soil is moist but not waterlogged. Ensure excess water drains away completely. Water in the morning to minimize evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water sparingly, allowing soil to dry completely between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to once every 3–4 weeks.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite, sand, or gravel to improve drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, leaf drop, or cessation of growth in cold; scorching or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; may suffer root damage in prolonged cold or frost.
Solution: Provide winter protection (e.g., mulch); move indoors if temperatures drop below 20°F (-7°C).
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch or dry out; growth may slow if water demand exceeds supply.
Solution: Increase watering frequency; provide light shade during peak heat; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply during growing season only.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season (spring–summer); avoid fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicSantolina africana is not considered toxic to cats. It does not pose a known risk to felines when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicSantolina africana is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects associated with ingestion of this plant by canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicSantolina africana is not considered toxic to humans. It does not produce any known compounds that are harmful when ingested in typical amounts.
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Santolina africana suitable for dry climates?
A: Yes, it is highly drought-tolerant and thrives in dry, well-drained conditions.
Q: Does Santolina africana attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds with its fragrant flowers.
Q: How often should Santolina africana be watered?
A: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings; overwatering can lead to root rot.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Asteraceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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