Santolina rosmarinifolia
Santolina rosmarinifoliafam. Lamiaceae
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Pl. 6AD6 — Santolina rosmarinifolia
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IOverview
Overview
Santolina rosmarinifolia, commonly known as santolina, is a subshrub native to Portugal and Spain. This plant thrives in dry to moist conditions with light (sandy) or medium soil, making it adaptable but preferring alkaline pH levels of 8–9. It grows up to 0.5 meters tall and is valued for its edible flowers and leaves, which can be used in culinary applications. One distinctive feature of santolina is its aromatic foliage that resembles rosemary, contributing to its name. Its light requirement is moderate, with a hardiness range from zones 6 to 10, making it suitable for gardens where these conditions are met.
Quick answers
What is Santolina rosmarinifolia?
Santolina rosmarinifolia, commonly known as santolina, is a subshrub native to Portugal and Spain. This plant thrives in dry to moist conditions with light (sandy) or medium soil, making it adaptable but preferring alkaline pH levels of 8–9.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Santolina rosmarinifolia thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soils that are light (sandy) or medium-textured. It is drought-tolerant but benefits from occasional watering, especially during dry spells. The plant grows best in a pH range of 8–9, indicating it prefers slightly alkaline conditions. Hardy in temperate regions, this subshrub can be propagated by cuttings or division. Harvest its edible flowers and leaves for culinary use.
Light
9/10
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
6-10
Habit
Subshrub
Mature size
0.5 m tall
Soil pH
8–9
For first-time growers
How to grow Santolina rosmarinifolia for the first time
8steps
Start with Skip as a low-maintenance plant to build your gardening skills.
- 1
What you'll need
A small pot, quality soil, and seeds or young plants.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in late summer for cooler climates.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use a well-draining mix with a pH of 8-9. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds outdoors after the last frost, or start indoors 4 weeks before planting outside.
- 5
First two weeks
Water sparingly to keep soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun and water only when the soil is dry. Prune lightly after flowering for shape.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back after flowering to encourage bushier growth and prevent legginess.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: Condiment, Drink, Tea
Other uses:HedgerowGround coverFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
2 native · 1 introduced
Distribution
2 native · 1 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 2 native· 1 introduced
Europe3 regions
native (2)PortugalSpain
introduced (1)Bulgaria
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Lamiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Lamiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
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