Onosma hispidum
Onosma hispidum
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Pl. BC16 — Onosma hispidum
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IOverview
Overview
Onosma hispidum, commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region including Albania, Bulgaria, Italy, Sicilia, Spain, Turkey-in-Europe, and Yugoslavia. This light-loving plant thrives in dry to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soil of medium texture, with a pH range of 7.5–8. It grows to about 0.4 meters tall and is known for its edible root parts, making it a valuable addition to gardens or culinary uses. One distinctive feature of Skip is its light, airy form that can add an ornamental touch to the landscape while also serving as a food source.
Quick answers
What is Onosma hispidum?
Onosma hispidum, commonly known as Skip, is a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region including Albania, Bulgaria, Italy, Sicilia, Spain, Turkey-in-Europe, and Yugoslavia. This light-loving plant thrives in dry to moist conditions and prefers well-drained soil of medium texture, with a pH range of 7.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Onosma hispidum thrives in light to moist conditions and prefers well-draining soils that are slightly alkaline (pH 7.5-8). It is a perennial with a height of about 0.4 meters and requires full sun to partial shade. The plant is hardy in temperate regions, making it adaptable to various climates within its native range. For cultivation, ensure the soil is light or sandy, with regular watering but avoid overwatering to keep the roots from rotting. Propagate through root division in early spring for best results. Harvest the edible root parts when mature.
Light
8/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.4 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Onosma hispidum for the first time
8steps
Start with Onosma hispidum as a simple perennial for your garden, focusing on basic care.
- 1
What you'll need
A small plant or seeds, a trowel, and some compost.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in fall before the first freeze.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a well-draining soil with a pH between 7.5 and 8, and prepare by mixing in compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Transplant young plants into the garden or sow seeds directly where they will grow.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide light watering during dry spells, especially in summer. Avoid overwatering.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune dead leaves and spent flowers to maintain the plant's health and appearance.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, using incorrect soil pH, neglecting light requirements, not providing enough drainage, and failing to prune regularly.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The root of Onosma hispidum is edible and can be prepared in various ways. It is typically dug up and used fresh or dried before being cooked to enhance its flavor. Skip the raw consumption as it may not be palatable.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 7 native
Europe4 regions
native (4)AlbaniaBulgariaItalySpain
Broader regions
native:Turkey-in-Europe, Yugoslavia
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · bc166459-ea2e-41a0-afeb-04e84e4046d4
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