Spiny restharrow
Ononis spinosa · Fabaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant spiny restharrow: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Type
- Perennial herbaceous plant
- Flowering
- May to August, pink-purple flowers
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, trifoliate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy, down to -20 °C
- Exposure
- Sunny
- Origin
- Europe, Mediterranean region
Care
Exposure
Spiny restharrow thrives in full sun, with a minimum of 6 hours per day. It tolerates very exposed and windy locations well. Avoid dense shade which would slow flowering and promote etiolation.
Soil and planting
This plant prefers poor, well-drained soils and even chalky ones. It adapts well to rocky or sandy terrain. Avoid overly rich soils or those that remain constantly wet, which would encourage excessive foliage development at the expense of flowers.
Watering
Once established, spiny restharrow is very drought-tolerant. Water moderately after planting to encourage root development. During dry summers, a few waterings suffice. Avoid excess moisture which could cause root rot.
Pruning and maintenance
Light pruning in spring helps maintain a compact, bushy shape. Remove dead or damaged stems. You can cut the plant back by a third after flowering to encourage a second wave of blooms.
Nutrient supply
No fertilizer is necessary on poor soils, where this plant excels naturally. A light application of compost in spring is more than enough. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers which would promote excessive foliage.
Diseases and pests
Very hardy and rarely affected by diseases, spiny restharrow copes well with difficult conditions. In cases of excess moisture, watch for root rot. Its natural spines provide excellent protection against pests.
Did you know?
Spiny restharrow, despite its modest and thorny appearance, has been used since antiquity in traditional European medicine. Its Latin name Ononis evokes its formidable spines, while the entire plant was long used to prepare infusions considered beneficial. It is also an excellent nectar plant, highly valued by bees and butterflies in spring and summer.
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.