Bupleurum rotundifolium
thorow-wax
An erect, branching annual to 30cm, with roundish leaves, the upper ones clasping the reddish stem. Clusters of tiny yellow flowers in rings of leaf-like bracteoles are grouped at the end of each stem branch. Formerly a cornfield weed, it now barely occurs in the wild, but makes a decorative garden annual
Other common names
common hare's earforcible plant
see moreNorth American modesty plant
thorough-wax
thoroughwort
Synonyms
Bupleurum griffithiiBupleurum perfoliatum
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
0.1–0.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Red | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green Yellow | Green | |
| Autumn | Red | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Apiaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- Yes
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Genus
Bupleurum may be annuals, perennials or evergreen shrubs; the leaves are simple, the tiny yellow or green flowers are borne in a cluster usually subtended by petal-like green to yellow bracts
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Europe, Mediterranean to Central Asia
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in any well-drained soil in full sun
Propagation
Propagate by seed. It is best to sow fresh seed in the autumn or sow in a cold frame in spring. Can self-seed
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Prairie planting
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wildflower meadow
- Banks and slopes
- Cut flowers
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Deadhead to control self-seeding
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
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.