Santolina: Lavender Cotton

Native to western and central Mediterranean region.

Santolina is suited for hot, dry, full sun climates. It thrives in sandy, rocky, and infertile alkaline soils. However, it will tolerate garden loam and well amended clay soils. Add pumice and sand to heavy clay soils to provide required drainage.

Santolina is drought tolerant once established and a relatively easy care plant. Prune in autumn to encourage new spring growth and to prevent plants from becoming leggy.

Fairly pest and disease resistant. Susceptible to fungal disease in humidity and root rot if overwatered.

After five years, plants will have lived their lifespan and will need to be replaced, but they can be easily propagated from cuttings.

Dried leaves used in sachets and potpourris. Foliage historically used as insecticide. Can also be used medicinally on insect bites as pain relief. Flowers can be used in arrangements. Perfume oil is also extracted from leaves.