Ononis minutissima
Ononis minutissima · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant ononis minutissima: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Flowering
- Spring to summer (April-July)
- Adult size
- 20-40 cm tall
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Hardy, down to -15°C
- Exposure
- Full sun
- Origin
- Mediterranean basin and Southern Europe
Care
Exposure
Install the slender restharrow in full sun, where it will flower vigorously. It tolerates hot, well-exposed situations typical of its Mediterranean habitat. Avoid persistent shade, which would weaken flowering.
Soil
This plant prefers well-drained, light and rather dry soil, even calcareous. It adapts to poor and rocky terrain. Improve drainage if your soil retains too much moisture by incorporating sand or gravel.
Watering
Water moderately when planting and during active growth. Once established, slender restharrow tolerates drought well and requires little watering. During dry summer periods, occasional watering is sufficient.
Fertilizing
Like legumes, this plant naturally fixes nitrogen and does not require regular fertilizing. A very modest application in spring is sufficient. Avoid excess nitrogen, which would promote foliage at the expense of flowering.
Pruning and cutting
Prune lightly after flowering to maintain a compact shape and stimulate dense regrowth. Remove dead or damaged stems. Severe pruning is not necessary; this plant grows naturally in a balanced manner.
Diseases and pests
Slender restharrow is generally very robust and rarely susceptible to diseases. In overly humid conditions, check for root rot. It resists common pests and difficult growing conditions well.
Did you know?
The restharrow (Ononis) bears a name that evokes its historical characteristic: plants of this genus were reputed to stop ploughs (from Greek 'onos' = donkey, for the analogy with stubbornness). Very slender and delicate, this Mediterranean species is an excellent choice for dry gardens, rockeries and arid areas where few plants survive.
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.