Santolina chamaecyparissus, commonly known as Cotton Lavender, is a compact, mound-forming evergreen shrub prized for its striking silvery-grey, finely divided aromatic foliage. In summer, it produces cheerful bright yellow, button-like flowers held on slender stems above the foliage, adding a warm contrast to its cool-toned leaves. Native to the Mediterranean, this hardy shrub thrives in hot, dry conditions and is an excellent choice for gravel gardens, low informal hedging, sunny borders, and containers.

Once established, Santolina chamaecyparissus is remarkably drought tolerant, requiring very little maintenance. It performs best in full sun and well-drained soil, making it ideal for exposed or south-facing positions. A light trim after flowering helps maintain a neat, dense habit and encourages fresh new growth. Its aromatic foliage is naturally deer and rabbit resistant, and the flowers are a valuable nectar source for bees and other pollinators throughout the summer months.

Cultural Information:

• Botanical Name: Santolina chamaecyparissus


• Common Names: Cotton Lavender, Lavender Cotton


• Classification: Hardy Evergreen Shrub


• Fully Grown Height & Spread: 50–75 cm × 60–90 cm


• Growth Habit: Compact, Mound-Forming Evergreen Shrub


• Perfect For: Gravel Gardens, Mediterranean Gardens, Low Hedging, Sunny Borders, Containers


• Flowering Time: Summer (bright yellow, button-like flowers)


• Planting Position: Full Sun


• Soil Requirements: Well-Drained, Poor to Moderately Fertile Soil


• Hardiness: Fully Hardy (RHS H5)


• Attracts: Bees & Pollinators


• Type: Hardy Evergreen Shrub


• Foliage: Silvery-Grey, Finely Divided, Aromatic Leaves


• Pruning: Trim Lightly After Flowering to Maintain Shape

What's Included:

• 1 x Santolina Chamaecyparissus plant supplied in a 2L root-ball, ready for planting.