British inula
Pentanema britannicum · Asteraceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant british inula: 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
- Adult size
- 60 to 90 cm in height
- Growth
- Moderate
- Hardiness
- Very hardy (down to -15°C)
- Origin
- British Isles and Western Europe
- Soil type
- Well-draining, tolerates poor soils
Care
Watering
Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry summers. Once established, British inula tolerates drought well. Avoid excess moisture in winter, which could promote root rot.
Light exposure
Place it in full sun for optimal flowering and vigorous growth. It accepts partial shade, but flowers less abundantly. Avoid overly shaded areas.
Pruning and cutting
Cut back the plant in late winter or early spring to encourage a compact and dense shape. Remove spent flowers to encourage prolonged flowering. You can also clean up dead stems after frost.
Soil and planting
Prefer well-draining soil, even poor and stony. British inula adapts to various conditions and doesn't require rich soil. Improve drainage with sand or gravel if your soil retains too much water.
Fertilizer
Rich nitrogen fertilizer is not essential. A light application of compost in spring is quite sufficient. Avoid over-fertilizing, which would stimulate foliage at the expense of flowers.
Diseases and pests
Generally robust and little susceptible to diseases. Watch for powdery mildew in case of excessive moisture and poor air circulation. Remove affected parts and improve air circulation by removing a few stems if needed.
Did you know?
British inula has been historically prized in folk medicine for its supposed anti-inflammatory properties. Its genus Pentanema, like that of Helen's flower, contains aromatic molecules that explain its appeal, both botanical and folkloric, in Western Europe for centuries.
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.