It is often said of plants: ‘should be more widely used’, or ‘not often seen in gardens’, and I am pretty sure I know why you could say that of my choice today.
It is at its peak in October, and often into November, so it’s not going to make many sales in nurseries and even less in
So, this late flowering, hardy member of the aster family is well worth seeking out. It is often described as thistle-like or a knapweed, but please don’t let this put you off because it is a trusty and robust little plant that has a season way beyond its flowers. The RHS describes it as ‘compact and poised’, and while I don’t really go along with ‘compact’, ‘poised’ suits it down to the ground!
The foliage is good, dark green and very dissected, almost like a fern, while the upright, wiry stems hold masses of pinky mauve flowers which bear little ‘antennae’ among the petals. Then come the delightful seed heads and on no account cut these down because throughout the winter, right up until March, the old skeleton will give you almost as much pleasure as when the plant is in full flower.
Excellent towards the front of the border, in a naturalistic or gravel
NB Louise has published a beautifully produced book of her plant profiles – A Plant for Each Week of the Year. It costs £9.99 and is for sale in our online shop here.
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9 replies on “Serratula tinctoria var. seoanei”
Great talk at Rushlake Green this am-enjoyed seeing the 3 Growbags in person(s)!
You’re so encouraging Irene! Every speaker must love coming to your society meetings – what a smashing groups of gardeners. It really couldn’t have been more enjoyable or uplifting! Thank you so much for your support.
Thanks girls
Lovely description of this little gem, which is now flowering in my garden. Have you ever saved seed and grown on plants from yours?
I’m so sorry Noelle, I must have missed this. I have tried – without success – so I’m trying again this year! Louise
I was just about to order seeds of this little gem, and here it is in your feature!! I shall look forward to hatching it and seeing it in my gravel section – Chris H
Where could I purchase this plant? I love it
Hi Laura – yes it looks wonderfully cheerful doesn’t it? A few specialised nurseries seem to have it on their stock list but are currently sold out. That said you could try Hardys as they seem to still have some? https://www.hardysplants.co.uk/perennials/serratula-tinctoria-var-seoanei
I hope you’re successful! best wishes
Hello Laura, I think even Hardy’s may have sold out of the Serratula this autumn, but Louise has managed to track down a specialist nursery that has them in stock. They’re in small pots (9cm) but reasonably priced at £3.80, but the minimum spend is £16, so you might have to buy several or browse around the other stock!
The nursery is called Leesas Alpines and I’m hoping this link will take you to the Serratula. Hope this is helpful, Best wishes Laura
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