Buphthalmum salicifolium
Buphthalmum salicifolium · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant buphthalmum salicifolium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Scientific name
- Buphthalmum salicifolium
- Family
- Asteraceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- June to September
- Mature size
- 60 to 80 cm tall
- Hardiness
- Down to -15 °C
- Origin
- Central and southern Europe
Care
Exposure
Ox-eye loves a sunny location, with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for generous flowering. It tolerates partial shade but will flower less abundantly. Protect it from strong winds that could damage its stems.
Soil and planting
Plant it in well-draining soil that is dry to moderately moist, as it fears excess moisture and waterlogging. Light, stony or gravelly soil is ideal. Avoid heavy, compacted soil.
Watering
Water moderately during the growing and flowering period, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant. Reduce watering significantly in winter.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to encourage prolonged flowering. Cut back the plant to 10-15 cm from the ground in late winter or early spring to promote better branching and a more compact form.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is quite sufficient. This plant does not require regular feeding; properly prepared soil at planting time is usually enough for the entire season.
Diseases and pests
Ox-eye is a hardy plant rarely affected by diseases. Make sure to drain the soil well to prevent root rot. In case of excess moisture, leaf spots may appear; improve air circulation by removing affected leaves.
Did you know?
Ox-eye owes its scientific name to the Greek 'buphthalmós' meaning literally 'ox eye', referring to the shape of its yellow inflorescences with radiating petals that resemble a large eye. This plant was traditionally used in folk medicine for its soothing properties and remains popular in natural-style gardens for attracting pollinators.
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.