Santolina etrusca is a fragrant, aromatic evergreen shrub with silvery-grey foliage and yellow button-like flowers. It thrives in hot, dry conditions and is drought-toler
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Requires at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Infrequent
25% intensity
Allow soil to dry completely between waterings. Drought-tolerant.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate to Warm
50% intensity
Prefers temperatures between 15-25°C. Can tolerate heat.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in spring. Does not require rich soil.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Santolina etrusca is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions. Overwatering can lead to root rot, especially in poorly draining soil.
Water deeply when needed, but err on the side of underwatering for this Mediterranean native.
Prune after flowering to maintain a compact shape and encourage bushier growth. Cut back stems by about one-third to one-half, avoiding cutting into old wood, which may not regrow.
Regular light trims throughout the growing season can also help manage its size and form.
Easily propagated from stem cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Insert cuttings into a well-draining potting mix and keep them moist until roots form.
Alternatively, it can be grown from seed sown in spring, though cuttings often produce a more vigorous plant.
Repot only when the plant becomes root-bound, typically every 2-3 years. Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a cactus or succulent blend. Ensure the new pot has drainage holes.
Repot in spring before new growth begins for best results.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Tuscan Lavender-Cotton (Santolina etrusca)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Asterales |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Genus | Santolina |
| Species | Santolina etrusca |
Similar in genus Santolina
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
