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Herbaceous PerennialAnnual Biennial

Carlina acaulis subsp. simplex

Clump-forming, short-lived perennial or biennial to 10cm tall, with rosettes of dark green, very prickly leaves 10cm long, and stemless, thistle-like flowers 10cm across, composed of a pale brown disc surrounded by silvery, off white petals, each produced in the centre of the rosettes in mid and late summer. Good for dried flowers

Synonyms
Carlina acaulis var. caulescens
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Size
Ultimate height
Up to 10cm
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Brown Grey Silver Green
Autumn Green
Winter Green
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H7
Botanical details
Family
Asteraceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Semi evergreen
Habit
Clump forming
Genus

A genus of flowering thistle-like herbs, annuals, perennials, shrubs and dwarf trees with spiny, upright stems and daisy-like brown and golden flowers

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in poor, well-drained soil in full sun, flowers are ideal for drying and flower arranging

Propagation

Propagate by seed in autumn in situ or in pots in a cold frame

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Rock garden
  • Flower borders and beds
  • Cut flowers
Pruning

No pruning required

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

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