Inula ensifolia
sword-leaved Inula
From mid to late summer, Inula ensifolia produces masses of daisy-like blooms on upright stems, creating a bright, sunny effect that works particularly well at the front of a border, in a rockery or gravel garden.
The narrow, lance-shaped mid-green leaves form a bushy clump and provide good ground cover through the growing season, helping to suppress weeds. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for the best flowering, although it will tolerate some partial shade. Once established, its ability to cope with drier conditions makes it a useful choice for low-maintenance and climate resilient planting.
The narrow, lance-shaped mid-green leaves form a bushy clump and provide good ground cover through the growing season, helping to suppress weeds. Plant in full sun and well-drained soil for the best flowering, although it will tolerate some partial shade. Once established, its ability to cope with drier conditions makes it a useful choice for low-maintenance and climate resilient planting.
How to care for Inula ensifolia:
Plant in well-drained soil in full sun for the best flowering, although it will tolerate light partial shade. Water regularly during the first growing season and during prolonged dry spells once established. Cut back the faded stems to ground level in late autumn or late winter, and divide congested clumps every 3-5 years to maintain vigour.
Flowering period:
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Eventual height:
0.6m
Eventual spread:
0.5m
Position:
Full sun / light shade
Rate of growth:
Fast-growing
Soil:
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness:
Fully hardy
-
This perennial dies back to below ground level each year in autumn, then fresh new growth appears again in spring.
