Bassia scoparia
summer cypress
A fast-growing, bushy, summer annual with narrow, light green leaves. Inconspicuous green flowers are produced in summer. Grown for its fine, feathery foliage that turns bright reddish purple in late summer and autumn
Other common names
belviderebroom cypress
see morebroom goosefoot
Mexican fireweed
mock cypress
summer cypress
burning bush
fire bush
fireball
standing cypress
Synonyms
Kochia scopariaSize
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Neutral, Acid, AlkalineColour & scent
Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
Spring | Green | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
Summer | Green | Green | ||
Autumn | Purple Red | |||
Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H2Botanical details
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Bassia can be upright annuals or perennials, with narrow, alternate leaves giving a bushy, feathery effect, often colouring well in autumn; flowers insignificant
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant out after the risk of frost, in well-drained soil in a sunny position
Propagation
Propagate by seed in spring
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Gravel garden
- Bedding
Pruning
No pruning required. Plants can be lightly trimmed in summer to create a neater shape
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Get involved
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