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Herbaceous PerennialShrubs

Ononis spinosa

spiny restharrow

A semi-evergreen subshrub or woody-based perennial, to around 60cm high, with an upright habit and stiff, spiny stems. Small, oval to elliptic leaves are held in groups of three, and pea-like flowers in shades of pink, purple and blue are borne all along the stems in summer

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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Pink Purple Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
Yes
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

A large genus of around 88 annual and perennial herbs and shrubs with hairy, toothed green trifoliate foliage and showy pink or yellow flowers. They are mainly found on wasteland, in wildflower meadows and are suited to alpine or rock gardens

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a sunny spot in well-drained soil. Ideal for a sunny bank, rock or gravel garden, or a south-facing wall

Propagation

Propagate by seed, sown in containers in an open frame in autumn, or by softwood cuttings in early summer. Seeds may need scarifying. Plants can be short-lived so regular propagation is recommended

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Gravel garden
  • Rock garden
  • Banks and slopes
  • Wall side borders
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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