An oft overlooked treat

Lavender Cotton (Santolina Chamaecyparissus)
I believe that lavender cotton is an often overlooked and unappreciated plant in our region. This particular plant is usually found in our nurseries in the fall/winter season. However, it is evergreen and just as beautiful in the spring and summer months. The foliage has a greenish - grey tint similar to that of a dusty miller and soft fuzzy leaves . The average plant will only reach about a foot in height but will sprawl out 2-3 feet in length when planted in the ground.

Lavender Cotton is a also great accent plant in container gardens and will contrast nicely with the color and texture of your pansies. When rubbed gently this plant gives off a soft, pleasing lavender aroma. It's scent makes it perfect for planting along a walkway or near the house. This plant produces small pom-pom shaped yellow flowers throughout the spring, thereby giving your yard a jump on spring color.