Cruciata laevipes
Cruciata laevipes · Rubiaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant cruciata laevipes: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- April to June, yellow flowers
- Adult size
- 20 to 40 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Western and central Europe
- Soil type
- Well-drained soil, neutral to slightly acidic
Care
Light Exposure
Crosswort prefers a location in semi-shade or partial shade, where it truly flourishes. It also tolerates shaded areas in woodland settings. Avoid intense full sun in Mediterranean regions.
Watering
Water regularly when planting and during the first season to establish the root system. Once established, this plant becomes self-sufficient and tolerates relative drought. During prolonged dry spells, occasional watering remains beneficial.
Soil and Drainage
Plant in well-drained soil, neutral to slightly acidic. Crosswort tolerates poor soils and doesn't require major amendments. Improve compacted soil with compost before planting.
Fertilizer
No fertilizer is necessary for this hardy and undemanding species. An annual application of well-decomposed compost in spring is more than sufficient to maintain its vitality.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape. A cleanup of dry or damaged stems in spring is all that's needed. This plant requires minimal intervention.
Diseases and Pests
Crosswort is very hardy and rarely affected by diseases. Watch for excess moisture in winter which could promote rot. No major pests typically threaten it.
Did you know?
Crosswort owes its common name to the distinctive arrangement of its leaves in a cross pattern along the stem (cruciform arrangement). In the past, plants of this genus were used in dyeing to obtain red and yellow hues, and the roots were used to prepare natural dyes before synthetic dyes arrived.
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.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.