Water
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter, as the plant becomes dormant. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Also known as Common Gromwell · European Gromwell · European Stoneseed
Gromwell (Lithospermum officinale) is a herbaceous perennial with small white flowers and glossy, nut-like seeds. It's a resilient plant, often found in dry, open habitat
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun but tolerates some shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings; reduce in winter.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Prefers average room temperatures; hardy in cooler conditions.
Low
25% intensity
Light feeding in spring is usually sufficient.
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water moderately during the growing season, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Reduce watering significantly in autumn and winter, as the plant becomes dormant. Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.
Prune after flowering to maintain a tidy shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Light pruning can be done in early spring before new growth begins to remove winter damage.
Propagate from seed sown in autumn or spring, or from semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer. Seeds may require a period of cold stratification. Cuttings should be placed in a well-draining medium.
Repot young plants annually or biennially in early spring. Mature plants are often best left undisturbed and can be repotted every 3-4 years if necessary, or simply top-dressed with fresh soil.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Gromwell (Lithospermum officinale)
Where Gromwell (Lithospermum officinale) is found

Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Boraginales |
| Family | Boraginaceae |
| Genus | Lithospermum |
| Species | Lithospermum officinale |
Similar in genus Lithospermum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data