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Herbaceous PerennialAnnual Biennial
Pontechium maculatum
red-flowered viper's grass
A biennial or short-lived perennial producing rosettes of silky-haired, greyish green leaves. The spikes of dark red, narrowly funnel-shaped flowers are produced in late summer
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Size
Ultimate height
0.5–1 metresTime to ultimate height
1–2 yearsUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green Grey Silver | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Red | Green Grey Silver | ||
| Autumn | Green Grey Silver | |||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or South–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Exposed or ShelteredDrought resistance
Yes Hardiness
H4Botanical details
- Family
- Boraginaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Potentially harmful
- Contact with foliage may cause skin irritation. Wear gloves and other protective equipment when handling
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- Central Europe to Balkans
How to grow
Cultivation
Needs a well-drained soil in full sun, and will not tolerate winter wet
Propagation
Porpagate by seed. Best overwintered under glass in first year
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Mediterranean climate plants
- Wall side borders
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
May be susceptible to slugs
Diseases
Generally disease-free
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