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Annual Biennial

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
belvidere
broom cypress
see morebroom goosefoot
Mexican fireweed
mock cypress
summer cypress
burning bush
fire bush
fireball
standing cypress
Synonyms
Kochia scoparia
Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1 year
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Chalk
Clay
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid, Alkaline
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green Green
Autumn Purple Red
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical 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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