Acanthophyllum cerastioides
mouse-ear gypsophila
A mat-forming, semi-evergreen perennial 5cm tall, with tufts of grey-green hairy leaves to 10mm long and bearing panicles of shallow, trumpet-shaped white flowers, veined and tinged pink, produced over long periods from late spring to summer
Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cmTime to ultimate height
2–5 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | White Pink | Grey Silver Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Pink | Grey Silver Green | ||
| Autumn | Grey Silver Green | |||
| Winter | Grey Silver Green |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H7Botanical details
- Family
- Caryophyllaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Semi evergreen
- Habit
- Matforming
- Genus
Acanthophyllum are a genus of around 75 species of compact, perennial, shrub-like flowering plants with spiny leaves and pink or white flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Pakistan to Tibet & Himalaya
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in light, sharply-drained, preferably alkaline soil in full sun. Dislikes winter wet.
Propagation
Propagate by seed at 13-18°C in winter or in a cold frame in spring; propagate by root cuttings in late winter
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- City and courtyard gardens
- Coastal
- Cottage and informal garden
- Gravel garden
- Patio and container plants
- Rock garden
- Banks and slopes
- Flower borders and beds
- Garden edging
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to stem rots
Get involved
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