Andryala integrifolia
Andryala integrifolia · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant andryala integrifolia: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Plant type
- Annual or biennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- June to September, yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm tall
- Foliage
- Deciduous, gray-green, semi-hairy
- Hardiness
- Moderate, temperate to warm climate
- Origin
- Mediterranean regions and North Africa
- Growth
- Fast, short cycle
Care
Exposure
Plant your Andryala in full sun for generous flowering and a compact plant. It thrives in well-lit locations and resists strong summer heat. Avoid dense shade, which slows growth and reduces flowering.
Soil
Prefer well-drained, light, and even poor soil: Andryala adapts well to dry, stony ground. Soil that is too rich promotes foliage at the expense of flowers. Drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing period, allowing the soil surface to dry between waterings. Once established, the plant tolerates dry periods well thanks to its hairy leaves. Reduce watering considerably in winter.
Fertilizer
A light application of balanced fertilizer in spring is more than enough. The plant thrives in poor soil and excess nutrients risk creating overly dense foliage. No feeding is necessary if the soil is naturally depleted.
Pruning and maintenance
Pinch young plants to encourage branching and a bushier shape. Remove spent flowers to stimulate new blooming. At the end of the season, cut back or allow the plant to self-seed naturally depending on your climate.
Diseases and pests
Andryala is generally robust and rarely affected by major pests. Ensure perfect drainage to prevent fungal rot from waterlogging. Inspect foliage regularly to detect any issues.
Did you know?
Andryala integrifolia is sometimes called 'yellow thistle' in the Mediterranean, though it is not a true thistle. Its scientific name 'integrifolia' means 'with entire leaves,' distinguishing it from its cousins with lobed foliage. This small hardy herbaceous plant has long been used in Mediterranean flora as a colorful accent plant in modern xerophile gardens.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
Add this plant to my garden →Plants from the same family
- SunflowerHelianthus annuus
- YarrowAchillea millefolium
- Ox-eye daisyLeucanthemum vulgare
- SneezewortAchillea ptarmica
- Canadian goldenrodSolidago canadensis
- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.