Santolina Plant Growing & Care Guide for Gardeners

Article by Dean Ravenscroft, Ph.D. - Updated 6th Nov 2023

In this Gardener's HQ guide, we'll explore cultivating Santolina plants in your garden, indoor spaces, and other settings.

Lavender Cotton, and Holy Flax: Cultivation & Garden Use

Santolina are hardy perennials that range from 30 to 75 cm (12 to 30 inches) in height.

Santolina bloom from the end of spring through summer, and carry masses of button shaped yellow flowers atop thin stems.

The foliage of Santolina has a fragrant nature, and is usually a grayish green.

Some common names for Santolina include Holy Flax and Lavender Cotton.

Santolina chamaecyparissus by brewbooks.

How to Grow Santolina Plants in the Garden

When growing Holy Flax and other Santolina members outdoors from seed then sow at a depth of 3 mm (1/8th inch). This can be done either at the start of spring or start of autumn.

Ideally the seeds should be sown and the plants grown in a poor dry soil. Sow into either a sunny or partially shaded part of the garden.

If you plan to first grow indoors, then start about two months in advance. T seedlings can be transplanted out in either early spring or late autumn.

The seeds should be put into soil, placed in a plastic bag, and then put in the fridge for about three weeks.

Following this, place the seeds at a temperature of about 18 to 20 degrees centigrade (64 to 68°F). It should take about three weeks for the seeds to germinate.

They should be sown outdoors with a spacing of 50 to 60 cm (20 to 24 inches).

Caring for Santolina

It is fairly easy to look after Santolina plants such as Lavender Cotton, they should be watered in extremely dry weather, and cut back to about 15 cm (6 inches) in height once flowering has occurred.

If you require more plants then they can be propagated by taking cuttings in autumn.

FAQ's

What is santolina used for?

Santolina, also known as Lavender Cotton, is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens for its grey-green foliage and yellow flowers. It's also used in traditional medicine as an antiseptic and worm repellent.

Is lavender cotton the same as lavender?

No, Lavender Cotton (Santolina) is not the same as Lavender. While both have aromatic qualities and belong to the same plant family, they are different species with distinct characteristics.

Are members of the Santolina plant genus fragrant?

Yes, the foliage of Santolina plants releases a pleasant, slightly camphorous fragrance when touched or crushed.

What does santolina smell like?

Santolina has a strong, distinctive aroma that's often described as pungent or camphor-like. Some people find it pleasant, while others do not.

Is santolina native to the UK or USA?

Santolina is native to the Mediterranean region, not the UK or USA. However, it's been widely naturalized in gardens and landscapes around the world, including in both these countries.

How many members does the Santolina genus have?

The Santolina genus contains approximately 10 recognized species.

Do members of Santolina make a good garden or landscaping plant?

Indeed, members of the Santolina genus are valued for their silvery foliage and yellow flowers. They're excellent for rock gardens, borders, and Mediterranean-themed landscapes.

Which Santolina species are most frequently grown by gardeners?

Santolina chamaecyparissus (Cotton Lavender) and Santolina rosmarinifolia (Holy Flax) are the species most frequently grown by gardeners.

What is the perfect location to grow Santolina?

Santolina plants prefer full sun and well-drained, poor to moderately fertile soil. They perform well in zones 6-9.

Is Santolina invasive in the USA, if so in which states?

Currently, Santolina is not classified as invasive in the USA. However, it's always a good practice to check with local regulations.

How do I remove Santolina plants from my garden?

To remove Santolina, uproot the plant, ensuring you remove the entire root system. Using a garden fork can help with larger plants.

Summary

Santolina, or Lavender Cotton. It's an evergreen shrub known for its aromatic, feathery gray-green foliage and small, button-like yellow flowers.As a native to the Mediterranean region, it thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, and can tolerate drought once established. It's primarily used ornamentally or in traditional medicine.

To grow Santolina, plant it in full sun in well-drained soil, ideally in spring or autumn. It is drought tolerant once established and prefers a neutral to slightly alkaline pH. Pruning after flowering encourages bushy growth and helps maintain the plant's compact shape.

I hope that you enjoyed this guide on how to grow Santolina. You may also enjoy the following growing guides: How to grow Feverfew and German Chamomile.