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Herbaceous Perennial

Aristea capitata

great blue flower-rod

A clump-forming rhizomatous perennial with erect, sword shaped evergreen leaves and dense spikes of purple-blue saucer-shaped flowers in summer.

Synonyms
Aristea major
Aristea thyrsiflora
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
2–5 years
Ultimate spread
0.5–1 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Neutral, Acid
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Purple Blue Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H3
Botanical details
Family
Iridaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

Aristea are compact, mostly evergreen perennials with linear leaves and short-lived, saucer-shaped flowers in spring and summer

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in a well-drained, loamy soil in full sun. Will need winter protection in all but the most sheltered gardens.

Propagation

Propagate by seed (indoors) at 15-20°C in spring or autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • City and courtyard gardens
  • Gravel garden
  • Patio and container plants
  • Mediterranean climate plants
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut faded flower spikes to the base. Remove older, untidy leaves.

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.