Care of the plant Lithodora diffusa or Purple gromwell |
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The genus Lithodora, family Boraginaceae, comprises 17 species of plants native to the Mediterranean region. Some species are: Lithodora diffusa, Lithodora fruticosa, Lithodora nitida, Lithodora oleifolia, Lithodora rosmarinifolia. Common name: Purple gromwell. They are perennial plants with a creeping or hanging habit that reach 15 cm (5.9") in height. They have hairy stems and small linear dark green leaves. The attractive flowers are deep blue in color and have 5 petals. They bloom in spring and early summer. They are used in rockeries, in borders, to cover slopes and in pots for patios, terraces and balconies. Lithodora diffusa prefers full sun exposure but can grow in semi-shade (it will flower less). They resist occasional frosts. They can grow in any type of very well drained soil; even in alkaline and poor substrates. They are very resistant to drought; water moderately waiting for the substrate to be well dry. They do not need fertilizers. Prune lightly in early fall to promote more abundant flowering. They are resistant plants to the usual pests but are sensitive to excess humidity. They propagate from seeds sown in spring. |
Images of the plant Lithodora diffusa or Purple gromwell |
 Lithodora diffusa  Lithodora diffusa  Lithodora diffusa |