Leuzea conifera
Leuzea conifera · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant leuzea conifera: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- July to September
- Mature size
- 60 to 100 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate to fast
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- Mountains of the Caucasus and Central Asia
- Soil type
- Well-drained, slightly chalky
Care
Exposure
Place your leuzea in full sun for optimal flowering. It tolerates partial shade but clearly prefers direct sunlight for at least 6 hours per day. It adapts well to windy locations.
Soil and planting
Enrich the soil with well-decomposed compost when planting. Choose a drained substrate that is slightly chalky to prevent root rot. It appreciates rocky, well-aerated soils.
Watering
Water regularly during growth and flowering, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Once established, leuzea will better tolerate dry periods. Reduce watering in winter.
Fertilizing
A balanced fertilizer application in spring is generally sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen which would promote foliage at the expense of flowers. A layer of compost on the surface each year is beneficial.
Pruning and maintenance
Remove spent flowers regularly to extend flowering. In late autumn or early winter, cut stems at soil level after they have completely dried. No formative pruning is necessary.
Diseases and pests
Leuzea is not very susceptible to diseases. Just ensure good drainage to prevent root rot. Occasionally inspect the foliage for any aphids or mites, which are rarely problematic on this robust species.
Did you know?
Leuzea is named after French botanist Pierre Leuzea and was long used in traditional Caucasian medicine. Its conical and spiny flower heads are spectacular and highly prized by florists for dried bouquets, as they retain their shape and golden hue for a long time after drying.
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
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- WormwoodArtemisia absinthium
Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.